Iconic British restaurant chain confirms 23 site closures after entering administration

Leon Restaurants has confirmed the permanent closure of 23 UK sites following a major restructuring programme aimed at rescuing the struggling chain.

The healthy fast‑food brand said it expects to exit administration after co‑founder John Vincent injected £2.5million into the business as part of a wider turnaround plan.

Leon entered administration in December after facing mounting financial pressures, with administrators from BTG Advisory and Quantuma appointed to assess options for the company.

Details of a proposed Company Voluntary Arrangement are now being published, with creditors due to vote on May 27.

Following the restructure, Leon will continue trading with 43 sites.

Mr Vincent bought back the business from Asda in October 2025, having originally sold the chain to the supermarket group in 2021.

The deal included 46 company‑owned restaurants and 20 franchised locations.

The company had already been under severe financial strain before administrators were appointed, and widespread closures were expected as part of any rescue package.

Leon has now confirmed that 23 company‑owned restaurants ceased trading during the process, while franchised sites were unaffected.

Mr Vincent said management had focused on rebuilding the business since reacquiring the chain.

The remaining estate now consists of 23 franchised restaurants and 20 company‑operated locations.

Staff unable to transfer to other Leon sites were offered opportunities to apply for roles at Pret A Manger, though the company has not confirmed how many jobs were affected.

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Several senior figures from Leon’s earlier growth phase have also returned to support the turnaround.

Chris Burford has rejoined as chief financial officer, while Nick Scovell has returned as operations director — both credited with helping shape the brand during its expansion years.

Leon said it plans significant menu changes over the next year, including refreshed versions of existing dishes and the return of customer favourites, as part of efforts to strengthen its position in the fast‑food market.

Mr Vincent described the restructuring as difficult but necessary.

Speaking to The Grocer, he said: “We have undergone a painful but necessary restructuring to secure the company’s future.”

He added that Leon can now exit administration and continue its “rejuvenation as a smaller but more sustainable company”.

He said he remained committed to rebuilding the brand’s reputation.

“There is a lot of affection for Leon, and I am committed to working on behalf of our guests, teams and suppliers to make the company what people want it to be,” he said.