Leon, which entered administration in December, has shuttered 22 restaurants and cut 244 jobs. Administrators at Quantuma Advisory recently reported that Leon currently employs 573 staff, with plans to close approximately 20 unprofitable locations.
Although Leon has not disclosed a comprehensive list of the closed branches, several restaurants have ceased operations. Financial data from The Telegraph reveals losses of £12.5 million in 2023, £8.3 million in 2024, and nearly £10 million based on preliminary figures for 2025.
Co-founder John Vincent disclosed intentions to expand by opening more restaurants in transport hubs like service stations, airports, and train stations. Vincent emphasized the profitability potential in such locations, citing a 2% profit margin at airports being equivalent to a 6% margin on the high street.
Attributing the closures to upcoming changes in business rates calculation and rising costs, Vincent highlighted challenges faced by Leon and its industry peers. Founded in 2004 by Vincent, Henry Dimbleby, and Allegra McEvedy, Leon operates 44 company-owned restaurants and 22 franchised outlets.
In 2025, Vincent repurchased the business from previous owner Asda. Leon had been acquired by EG Group, part of Asda, in 2021, before being sold back to Vincent in 2023. Vincent emphasized that Asda viewed Leon as not aligning with its strategic focus.
Leon has initiated a support program for employees affected by store closures, aiming to offer alternative roles within the company or redundancy payments if relocation is not feasible. Additionally, a partnership with Pret A Manger allows affected Leon staff to seek employment through a dedicated channel.