Lunya announces transition to employee ownership

Peter and Elaine Kinsella are transferring ownership of their two Liverpool restaurants, Lunya and Lunyalita, to their 67 employees. Lunya, a Spanish and Catalan-inspired restaurant and deli, opened in 2010 in Liverpool ONE, followed by Lunyalita in the Royal Albert Dock in 2018. A Manchester location was launched in 2015 but closed in 2020 due to COVID.

Following Elaine's 2021 diagnosis with myeloma, Peter plans to gradually step back from the business over the next seven years. To secure its future, they will establish an Employee Owned Trust (EOT), allowing employees to have a stake in the restaurant's operations. The business will be valued by independent accountants, and the founders’ shares will be sold to the EOT, with future profits benefiting all staff after reaching an agreed valuation.

Peter will serve as executive chairman while continuing to mentor the management team. He stated, “This significant change marks a new chapter in Lunya’s journey, placing the future of the business in the hands of our dedicated staff.” The Kinsellas believe that this new ownership model reflects their commitment to rewarding and empowering their team.

Tom Cavanagh, the director of operations, expressed excitement about the opportunity and gratitude for the Kinsellas' generosity. Elaine praised the team's contributions, noting that their involvement would bring fresh ideas and continued success to Lunya. Legal arrangements for the EOT were facilitated by Liverpool law firm Brabners, with financial support from Mitchell Charlesworth Accountants.