Lunya, a Spanish / Catalan inspired deli and restaurant, began its journey back in 2008 with a stall at Claremont Farm in Clatterbridge for the Wirral Food Festival. Now, after 16 successful years, founders Peter and Elaine Kinsella are looking towards retirement from their thriving business, which includes a deli, restaurant, bar, outside catering, and online store operating across two locations in Liverpool.
As the couple plans for the future, they realized the importance of having a solid exit strategy in place. They considered the traditional route of a private sale but ultimately decided to take a different path that would not only preserve their legacy but also ensure the well-being of their dedicated staff in the long term. This led them to explore the concept of an Employee Owned Trust (EOT), which Lunya has now transitioned to.
Under this new ownership structure, all staff members have an equal stake in the business, creating a sense of shared ownership and responsibility among the team. Peter and Elaine believe that this shift reflects their belief that those who have contributed to Lunya’s success should have a say in its future direction. They see this as a way to reward their hardworking employees and empower them to actively participate in the growth and innovation of the restaurant as the founders gradually step back from day-to-day operations.
Despite facing personal challenges, such as Elaine’s ongoing battle with Myeloma, a type of blood cancer, the couple remains committed to ensuring the continued success of Lunya. Peter will continue to lead the business as the Executive Chairman, overseeing the overall vision and values of the company. Meanwhile, Director of Operations Tom Cavanagh, who has been instrumental in managing the restaurant, expresses excitement about the opportunity to carry forward Peter and Elaine’s legacy.
The Employee Owned Trust model not only benefits the staff members by giving them a financial stake in the business but also provides a structured way for the founders to transition into retirement. The EOT is a government-backed scheme designed to enhance employee engagement and secure the long-term future of the business while enabling the previous owners to gradually phase out their involvement. This ensures a smooth transition of ownership and management, allowing for continuity and stability within the company.
Overall, Lunya’s journey towards employee ownership marks a significant milestone in its evolution as a family-owned business. By embracing this new structure, Peter and Elaine are not only securing the future of their restaurant but also fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among their team. As they look ahead to the next chapter, the couple remains dedicated to upholding the reputation of Lunya as one of the top Spanish restaurants in the UK.