Subway in Bangor has introduced new rules for teenagers, after a spate of antisocial behaviour at the fast-food sandwich outlet.
Teenagers under 17 years must now be accompanied by an adult, after staff and customers were subjected to “awful behaviour” from the youngsters in recent weeks. Any unaccompanied children won’t be served and will be asked to leave.
The behaviour of the teenagers had become more abusive and threatening towards staff members recently and during one incident staff were forced to lock the door and call the police, following an altercation.
The problems have been worse at the weekends, when up to 20-30 teenagers have been gathering on the streets.
Subway manager Michelle Thomas told North Wales Live that action was needed because staff could no longer “tolerate any more of the awful behaviour.”
In the week since the measure was introduced, takings have fallen but staff now feel more secure, she said.
Michelle said: “We’ve been having a lot of issues with young people, especially at weekends when there might be groups of 20-30 on the streets.
“Initially it was just a bit of cheek, but things have become more abusive and threatening.
“Often they will come in and slam the glass door, which leaves the whole shop shaking.
“Recently, one sat down outside and was violently sick in front of customers.
“The staff were getting really fed up with it – and I wasn’t prepared to lose good staff for the sake of youngsters who spend very little in the restaurant.
“Obviously we are losing money but that’s better than losing staff.
“Things have improved but I do feel a bit sorry for the younger girls who came into the city at weekends to do a bit of shopping before calling at Subway for something to eat.
“But we could not put up with the abuse. The new entry policy shows we mean business and will not stand for any more bad behaviour.”
