Wake Up to Money King of Leon
Jan 16, 2026
John Vincent, co-founder of the Leon restaurant chain, discusses the company's challenges and vision for healthy, easy food. He shares insights on how weight-loss jabs could attract more customers. Panelist Lindsay Blakely highlights the Christmas success of her online bakery and the impact of transport improvements on local businesses. Justin Onyekusi offers investment advice, while Frances Haak analyzes UK economic data and consumer confidence. Discussions also touch on the fading interest in veganism and the shift toward natural proteins.
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Holiday Surge From Corporate Orders
- Lindsay Blakely says Bumble and Goose saw a 50% Christmas uplift and 90% growth versus the prior quarter.
- She attributes this mainly to corporate gifting and large corporate orders.
Phased Rail Plans Risk Losing Credibility
- Northern rail plans target phased upgrades but timescales extend into decades, reducing near-term credibility.
- Panelists stress that businesses need believable, visible progress to invest regionally.
GDP Surprise Eases Recession Fears
- November GDP surprised to the upside, driven by services and domestic spending.
- Panelists see this as lowering short-term recession risk and boosting business confidence.