Wed 18th May 2016 - SSP signs deal with Leon to open at train stations SSP signs deal with Leon to open at train stations: SSP, the operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, has entered into a partnership with healthy eating brand Leon. The initial five-year deal is expected to see the first Leon stores operated by SSP open later this year at London’s Liverpool Street station and in Paddington station. Leon first opened in London in 2004 and shortly after was named “Best New UK Restaurant” by the Observer. Since then the founders John Vincent and Henry Dimbleby have opened 34 more stores in the UK. Simon Smith, chief executive of SSP UK, said: “Leon was described by the Times as the ‘future of fast food’. We agree. Leon is the perfect partner for our travel sites. We are delighted to be able to add such an innovative brand to our portfolio.” Vincent, co-founder and chief executive of Leon, said: “When we started we imagined what fast food would be like in heaven – fast, fresh and naturally flavourful. And just like traditional fast food, we aim to be where people need and want us – on busy high streets, in airports and in train stations. This partnership with SSP in UK train stations means that together we can bring naturally fast food to even more busy people across the UK.” Leon currently has 35 stores in London, Birmingham and transport hubs in the UK. It is set to open in Scotland and mainland Europe (Amsterdam) for the first time this summer. On Monday, Propel reported full accounts filed at Companies House by Leon showed total sales rose £12m to £36.9m in the year to 27 December 2015. Sales derived from 26 owned stores, an increase of 11 in the year, and seven franchised sites, up one. The period-end saw 45 consecutive months of like-for-like sales growth – with consecutive years of 7.8% growth following on from 23.4% like-for-like growth. Company-owned sites produced sales, including franchise royalties, of £26.6m, up £7.7m. As previously announced, operating Ebitda before exceptional items was up £700,000 to £2.26m. There were exceptional administrative expenses of £264,529. Operating profit was £830,365, compared with £710,089 the year before despite a near £5m rise in administrative expenses to £18,009,153. Dimbleby was paid £25,000 in recognition of his services as brand ambassador – down from £30,000 the year before.