Leon, after entering administration in December, has shut down 22 restaurants and terminated 244 positions. The recent report by Quantuma Advisory administrators indicates that Leon’s current staff count stands at 573, with plans to close approximately 20 unprofitable sites.
While specific details of the closed branches remain undisclosed by Leon, notable closures include various restaurants. Reports from The Telegraph highlight the company’s financial losses of £12.5 million in 2023, £8.3 million in 2024, and nearly £10 million based on projected figures for 2025.
In a strategic shift, Leon’s co-founder, John Vincent, announced intentions to expand restaurant operations in transportation hubs such as service stations, airports, and train stations. Vincent emphasized the profitability of operating in these locations, citing a higher revenue potential compared to traditional high street establishments.
Attributing the closures to impending changes in business rates calculation and overall cost escalation, Vincent expressed concerns about the economic landscape affecting Leon’s operations. Established in 2004 by Vincent, Henry Dimbleby, and Allegra McEvedy, Leon currently manages 44 company-owned restaurants and operates 22 franchised outlets.
Vincent repurchased the business from its previous owner, Asda, in 2025. Initially acquired by Mohsin Issa and Zuber Issa’s EG Group in 2021, Leon became part of Asda’s portfolio in 2023. Vincent highlighted that Leon did not align with Asda’s strategic focus, leading to its reacquisition.
In response to the closures, Leon has implemented a support program for affected employees, ensuring assistance for those facing redundancies. The company aims to relocate staff to other Leon establishments and provides redundancy packages when necessary. Additionally, a partnership with Pret A Manger facilitates job applications for impacted Leon employees through a dedicated platform.