Frankie and Benny's become first family restaurant chain in UK to ban mobile phones

Frankie and Benny's is the first family restaurant in the UK to ban mobile phones.

The Italian-American channel made the decision after new research revealed that 72% of children would like their parents to spend less time on the phone, while 70% felt they thought their parents had more time to talk. screen than them.

Upon entering the restaurant, guests will be asked to leave their phones in an area reserved for people who do not have a telephone at the table, with the intention of keeping it for the duration of the meal.

This initiative is part of the restaurant's "No Phone" campaign, which aims to encourage families who spend time together, without the interruption of smartphones, to run from November 29 to December 7.

As to whether the ban will be maintained after this period, a spokesman for Frankie and Benny, L & # 39; Independent that it will depend on the success of the test, which will be judged according to the reactions of the customers.

From Thursday, guests will be able to participate in the campaign and will be offered free meals for children.

"Our staff is actively encouraging clients and families to participate in the campaign, but of course we can not force them to turn in their phones," said the spokesperson.

"If the initiative is successful, we will definitely look for ways to activate it more permanently."

The campaign was launched after business leaders looked for ways to encourage people to get more involved at the dinner table.

"We found that giving families the ability to leave their appliances for a few hours was a great way to get them together and enjoy the time with the family," says a statement from the restaurant.

Susan Atkins, a parenting expert, agrees that gnawing the screens will help strengthen family ties.

"I'm glad to see Frankie and Benny leading the way by banning the screens at the table," she says.

"We live in a connected world, connected 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at a breakneck pace, unless we consciously plan not to be, so I love the idea families sitting, eating and talking together, away from the screens.

Atkins added that parents who reduce the time spent on their phone will help give an example to their kids regarding "when and where the use of technology is appropriate".