Major UK Fast Food Chain Leon Shuts London Store Over Mice Infestation
A prominent UK fast food chain has been compelled to close one of its popular branches due to a severe mice infestation. Leon, which operates over 70 locations across the country, shut its store in Camden, London, after authorities identified an active and widespread mouse problem.
Emergency Closure and Public Health Concerns
The closure was prompted by a Food Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice issued by the London Borough of Camden. This notice, based on the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2014, cited "an active widespread uncontrolled mice infestation and mice activity throughout the premises including next to food equipment." Officials declared that this situation created "an imminent risk to public health," leading to the immediate shutdown.
Signs were posted on the store's door stating, "We’re closed whilst we make some improvements. We’ll be back opening soon." However, consumer journalist Harry Wallop highlighted the underlying issue on social media, questioning whether the so-called improvements were related to the mice infestation.
Chain's Response and Commitment to Cleanliness
John Vincent, who recently re-acquired Leon, addressed the incident, emphasizing that cleanliness is the chain's top priority. He stated, "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 further assured customers that the safety and wellness of guests are paramount, though Wallop humorously noted that mouse droppings near food hardly equate to wellness activities like yoga.
Background on Leon and Recent Ownership Changes
Leon was founded in 2004 by John Vincent, Henry Dimbleby—who later served as a government food tsar—and chef Allegra McEvedy. After selling the business to the billionaire Issa brothers' EG Group in a £100 million deal four years ago, Vincent re-acquired it in October, just months before this incident. The closure underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining hygiene standards in busy urban locations.
The chain is now collaborating with partners to resolve the infestation and reopen the Camden store, aiming to restore public trust and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
