Leon, after entering administration in December, has shut down 22 restaurants and laid off 244 employees. The recent report from administrators at Quantuma Advisory indicates that Leon now employs 573 individuals, with plans to close approximately 20 unprofitable locations.

While Leon has not disclosed a comprehensive list of the closed branches, some of the shuttered restaurants include ones mentioned in media reports. The company faced significant financial losses, with recorded deficits of £12.5 million in 2023, £8.3 million in 2024, and nearly £10 million based on projected figures for 2025.

Following the closure announcements, co-founder John Vincent revealed intentions to expand operations within service stations, airports, and train stations. In an interview on the BBC Big Boss Interview podcast, Vincent highlighted the profitability potential in transport hubs, emphasizing that a 2% profit margin at an airport holds similar value to a 6% margin on the high street.

Vincent attributed the closures to impending changes in business rates calculation methods and overall cost escalations. Leon, established in 2004 by Vincent, Henry Dimbleby, and Allegra McEvedy, operates 44 company-owned restaurants and has 22 franchised outlets.

After repurchasing the business from Asda in 2025, Vincent explained that Leon did not align with Asda’s strategic focus. He mentioned industry-wide challenges faced by competitors due to evolving work patterns and escalating taxes.

Leon has initiated a support program for employees affected by store closures, aiming to relocate them to other Leon establishments. In cases where relocation is not feasible, affected employees will receive redundancy packages. Additionally, a partnership with Pret A Manger allows displaced Leon workers to seek employment through a dedicated channel.

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