Leon Fast Food Chain Enters Administration With Hundreds of Job Losses
A prominent British fast food chain known for its 'natural' menu offerings has collapsed into administration, resulting in significant job losses and restaurant closures across the United Kingdom.
Substantial Staff Reductions and Restaurant Closures
Leon, the High Street chain famous for its halloumi burgers and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, has cut 244 positions following its entry into administration at the end of last year. The company has closed 22 restaurants as part of this restructuring process, with administrators Quantuma Advisory revealing that Leon now employs 573 staff members. This represents a reduction of approximately 40% compared to staffing levels at the same time last year.
Financial Struggles and Ownership Changes
The chain has faced considerable financial difficulties in recent years, recording substantial losses according to draft figures. Leon reported losses of £12.5 million in 2023, £8.3 million in 2024, and £10 million in 2025. This financial turmoil occurred despite a significant ownership change in October, when co-founder John Vincent repurchased the business from supermarket giant Asda for an estimated £30-50 million. This transaction came just four years after Vincent had originally sold Leon to Asda for £100 million.
Restaurants Affected by Closures
The administration process has led to the closure of numerous Leon locations across England. Affected restaurants include:
- Tongham, Surrey
- Notting Hill Gate, London
- ASDA, Milton Keynes
- Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush
- George Street, Richmond
- Chancery Lane, High Holborn, London
- Cheapside, London
- Brixton Road, London
- Brighton (North Street)
- Manchester Piccadilly
- Wimbledon Hill Road, London
Founder Cites Strategic Drift and Industry Challenges
John Vincent, who co-founded Leon in 2004 alongside Henry Dimbleby and chef Allegra McEvedy, recently commented on the chain's difficulties. He suggested that the business had drifted from its core values and had been neglected by its previous owners. "In the last two years, Asda had bigger fish to fry, and Leon was always a business they didn't feel fitted their strategy," Vincent stated last month.
He further noted the challenging environment facing the entire fast food sector, explaining that "If you look at the performance of Leon's peers, you will see that everyone is facing challenges – companies are reporting significant losses due to working patterns and increasingly unsustainable taxes."
Support for Affected Employees
Leon has established measures to support staff impacted by the closures. The company initially committed to finding alternative positions for affected employees within other Leon restaurants where possible. For those unable to secure such transfers, particularly where no Leon restaurant exists within reasonable commuting distance, redundancy payments have been arranged. Additionally, the company established a pathway for affected staff to apply for positions at Pret A Manger.
Historical Context and Previous Success
Leon was originally founded in London in 2004, with its first outlet opening on Carnaby Street. The chain distinguished itself with its "naturally fast food" branding, emphasizing Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with seasonal ingredients. At its peak in 2022, Leon operated 85 restaurants both within Britain and internationally, representing a significant presence in the competitive fast food market before its recent financial troubles led to administration.
