LEON, a leading UK fast food chain with over 70 outlets, has shuttered its Kings Cross branch due to a widespread mice infestation posing risks to public health.
A sign on the closed door reads: “We’re closed whilst we make some improvements. We’ll be back opening soon.” Social media posts from users in the area first highlighted the sudden closure.
Hygiene Notice Details Mice Problem
Consumer journalist Harry Wallop shared on X (formerly Twitter): “Leon, Kings Cross is closed so it can ‘make some improvements’. Errr is that to ‘Because there is an active widespread mice infestation’ by any chance?”
Wallop posted an image of a Food Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice from the London Borough of Camden. Issued under Regulation 8 of the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2014, it cites “an active widespread uncontrolled mice infestation and mice activity throughout the premises including next to food equipment.” Authorities declared an “imminent risk to public health.”
Wallop later noted: “Update. Leon’s PR has called. About the mice infestation and ‘imminent risk to public health’.” He added: “The ‘wellness of our guests’… I think mouse droppings near the food isn’t akin to overstretching in yoga.”
LEON’s Response and Leadership
John Vincent, who recently reacquired LEON, affirmed: “Cleanliness of our restaurants is our number one priority. We are taking this seriously and working with our franchise partner AVOLTA and with Network Rail so we can fix the issue and re-open.”
Vincent stressed: “The safety and cleanliness of our restaurants and the wellness and trust of our guests will always be our absolute priority.”
Vincent co-founded LEON in 2004 with Henry Dimbleby, now a government food advisor, and chef Allegra McEvedy. He bought back the chain in October, four years after selling it to EG Group’s Issa brothers for £100 million.
