The national café-bar group Loungers is in advanced negotiations to take over the former Leaf venue on Bold Street, a move that could create up to 40 new jobs in Liverpool city centre. The site became available after the independent institution Leaf closed its doors permanently on September 15, 2025, after more than 15 years of operation.
Loungers, which already operates Milo Lounge on Lark Lane and Brasco Lounge at Mann Island, confirmed its interest in the prominent location. A spokesperson for the group stated they are “hopeful to join the local community” but emphasized that the deal is not yet finalized.
Key Takeaways
- National café-bar chain Loungers is in “advanced negotiations” for the former Leaf on Bold Street site.
- The potential opening could create between 30 and 40 new jobs for the local area.
- Leaf on Bold Street, an independent venue, closed on September 15 after more than 15 years.
- Loungers plans to establish a community hub, partnering with local charities if the deal is confirmed.
- Leaf's owners are now focusing on their remaining venues in Liverpool.
Potential New Occupant for Bold Street Landmark
Following the closure of Leaf, a popular city centre venue, national hospitality group Loungers has emerged as the leading contender to take over the space. The company, which operates over 200 sites across the UK, is known for its informal, neighbourhood-focused café-bars.
A spokesperson for Loungers confirmed the ongoing discussions, providing insight into the company's plans for the location should the deal proceed.
“We are in advanced negotiations on a site on Bold Street, Liverpool. It’s a great area and we are hopeful to join the local community by opening a Lounge and creating between 30-40 new jobs."
The spokesperson was clear that final agreements are not yet in place, adding, “Nothing is totally confirmed yet.” The group intends to provide more definitive information as negotiations conclude.
Loungers in Liverpool
If the deal is successful, this would be the third Liverpool location for the Loungers group. The company currently runs Milo Lounge on Lark Lane and Brasco Lounge at Mann Island, both of which are popular with local residents.
Focus on Community Integration and Job Creation
A key part of the proposal from Loungers involves a commitment to local community engagement. The company highlighted its standard practice of integrating its venues into the fabric of the neighbourhoods they serve.
According to the spokesperson, this approach goes beyond simply operating a business. “For every Lounge we open, it’s important to us that we give back to the community," they explained.
Community Partnership Model
Loungers outlined a multi-faceted community strategy that it would implement at the Bold Street site:
- Charity Partnerships: The new venue would partner with local charities to raise funds and support their work.
- Community Space: The location would be available for meetings of local groups, clubs, and businesses.
- Hub for Residents: The company encourages its customers to use its spaces as a central community hub.
The creation of 30 to 40 new jobs would also provide a significant boost to local employment. The roles would likely cover a range of hospitality positions, from management to front-of-house and kitchen staff.
The End of an Era for Leaf
The potential new beginning for the Bold Street site follows the recent closure of Leaf, which had been a fixture in Liverpool's independent scene for over a decade. The venue, run by siblings Natalie and Graham Haywood, first opened in 2010 and became known for its extensive tea selection, live music, and relaxed atmosphere.
The company announced on September 3 that its original location would close permanently on September 15, which led to a significant public response from loyal customers sharing memories of their time at the venue.
A Challenging Period for Hospitality
The closure of the Bold Street venue followed the company's decision earlier in the year to shut its West Kirby branch, which opened in 2020. At the time, the owners cited major financial struggles and a “fragile industry” that looked “bleaker than ever,” reflecting wider pressures on the UK's independent hospitality sector.
On the final day of trading, co-founder Natalie Haywood spoke about the emotional experience of closing the flagship site.
“It’s a very emotional day for us all today as we close the doors on LEAF on Bold Street for good. Myself, Graham, our team of wonderful staff and everyone we work with have all been humbled by the lovely messages since we announced the site is closing.”
She noted the importance of the venue to its patrons. “It’s been lovely to see so many regulars coming back to spend time in the venue and to say goodbye – we know LEAF Bold Street means a lot to so many people, both locally and those who have visited us from further afield over the years.”
Future Plans for the Leaf Brand
Despite the closure of its original venue, the Leaf brand remains active in Liverpool. The company will now concentrate its efforts on its remaining sites, which include the venue on Smithdown Road.
Natalie Haywood confirmed that the team is looking ahead and has new projects in development. “And now as this chapter does close, we’re all looking forward to focusing on our other venues in Liverpool and we have lots of exciting plans to reveal soon," she stated.
This strategic shift allows the business to consolidate its operations and adapt to the current economic climate while continuing to serve its customer base at other locations. The focus now turns to what the future holds for the iconic Bold Street property as negotiations with Loungers continue.