Lunya, a nationally acclaimed Catalonian-inspired eatery in Liverpool, has made a landmark decision to transition to employee ownership. This unique move in the UK hospitality sector aims to secure the future of the restaurant and preserve its core values as co-owners Peter and Elaine Kinsella prepare for retirement.
Founded in 2010, Lunya has established itself as a beloved destination for food enthusiasts, renowned for bringing authentic Spanish flavours to the UK with a modern twist. The restaurant has garnered multiple awards and a loyal customer base, celebrated for its commitment to quality and exceptional service. It has won the prestigious Good Food Guide Northwest Restaurant of the Year award twice.
Peter Kinsella expressed his pride in announcing the transition, achieved through the sale of shares to an employee ownership trust (EOT). “This significant change marks a new chapter in Lunya’s journey,” he stated, emphasising that the move places the restaurant’s future in the hands of its dedicated staff. “This ensures the continuation of our unique culinary and cultural experience for years to come.”
He further reiterated that this transition would help maintain Lunya’s core values and commitment to quality. “Elaine and I believe that the people integral to Lunya’s success should have a stake in its future. This new structure rewards the hard work and dedication of our staff and empowers them to play a direct role in the restaurant’s continued growth and innovation as we gradually retire,” he added.
The transition comes at a time of personal challenge for the Kinsella family, as Elaine was diagnosed with myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, in 2021. While she has taken a step back from day-to-day operations, Peter plans to remain actively involved in the business for several more years. He will transition to the role of Executive Chairman, focusing on mentoring the management team and guiding the restaurant’s direction.
Tom Cavanagh, the Director of Operations who has managed Lunya for nearly two years, expressed enthusiasm for the new opportunity. “The team is really excited about this chance given to us by Peter and Elaine. We are grateful for their generosity in effectively gifting us the business, and we plan to continue running and developing Lunya to ensure it remains one of the best Spanish restaurants in the UK,” he said.
Elaine and Peter believe the employee ownership model will foster a culture of collaboration and shared purpose, allowing staff to have a greater say in the business’s strategic direction. The Kinsellas hope this transition will encourage employee retention and provide long-term financial benefits for the staff.
Elaine paid tribute to the Lunya team, stating, “This transition is a testament to the incredible people who make up the Lunya family. Our team is at the heart of everything we do, and we are thrilled to see them take an even greater role in shaping Lunya’s future.”
The legal arrangements for the EOT were facilitated by Brabners LLP, while Mitchell Charlesworth Accountants handled the financial aspects. Partner at Brabners, Stephen Hadlow, commented on the significance of the move, stating that it heralds a bright new chapter for Lunya without compromising the brand integrity that Peter and Elaine have cultivated over the years.
With this transition, Lunya sets a precedent in the hospitality industry, demonstrating how employee ownership can successfully secure a restaurant’s legacy and ensure its values endure through a dedicated team.