The UK-based fast food chain Leon has recently announced the closure of 22 of its restaurants and the termination of 244 jobs due to its administration process that began in December. Despite previous indications that around 20 locations were at risk of closure, the company has exceeded this number, reflecting its struggle with profitability in a competitive market. The latest update from Quantuma Advisory, the administrators managing the proceedings, indicates that Leon currently employs 573 staff members, a significant reduction from its earlier numbers.

While a comprehensive list of the closed locations has yet to be provided by Leon, some confirmed closures include branches in prominent areas such as North Street in Brighton, various locations across London, and one in Manchester Piccadilly. This move not only highlights the financial difficulties faced by Leon but also underscores broader trends in the fast food industry where many brands are reevaluating their physical presence in high-rent areas, often exacerbated by shifting consumer preferences and the impacts of economic factors like inflation.

The closure of these locations comes on the heels of reported losses of £12.5 million, raising concerns over the future viability of the brand and its operations. Industry analysts will be closely monitoring how Leon's restructuring efforts unfold and whether it can stabilize and potentially recover from its current setbacks as it navigates through this challenging economic environment.