The iconic Brussels restaurant Chez Léon has been sold to the Joulie Group, ensuring the continuation of the establishment and preserving jobs after a demanding period for the Vanlancker family. The sale comes as the family announced their departure from the restaurant business following a personal family drama.
Kevin Vanlancker, who took over leadership after his father Rudy Vanlancker’s death, explained the decision. “We are living a real family drama. Separating from ‘Léon,’ which has been in our family for six generations, is a real heartbreak, but the most important thing is the survival of the establishment, the continuation of my father’s spirit, and the permanence of the jobs of the workers who, generation after generation, have always shown loyalty to the Vanlancker family.”
Joulie Group, founded in 1974, currently operates 13 restaurants and 14 hotels in France, employing approximately 850 people. Representatives for the group stated their intention to maintain the essence of Chez Léon. “Our ambition is not to revolutionize what exists at Chez Léon. We are restaurant professionals with a family vision and will work in that spirit just as the Vanlancker family has done since 1893 with all the staff, while some small adjustments will have to be made.”
The FGTB Horval union indicated it would closely monitor the “adjustments” announced by the new management, ensuring job security for employees. The move underscores the importance of maintaining employment during transitions of ownership for established businesses.
The sale follows Chez Léon’s recent acquisition of Aux Armes de Bruxelles and Bruneau, signaling an expansion of the restaurant group’s portfolio.
