The owners of Liverpool’s Lunya restaurant have spoken out about how the ongoing pandemic has affected them.
The message comes almost a year after England first went into lockdown, during which owners Peter and Elaine Kinsella have been forced to close their Manchester venue and completely change their business model.
During the first lockdown, Peter admitted he had broken down ‘uncontrollably’ while writing a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, after being forced to close.
He continued to call out the government for its lack of help for small businesses and even told the Prime Minister to “do more” after revealing the company’s £500k debt.
Now, just months into 2021, Peter and Elaine say the last year has given them “a whole new lease of life”.
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In a newsletter to Lunya fans, the owners said that over the last year, they’ve had to “change and adapt” or they would have “gone under”.
These changes, which include online based tastings, an online store, virtual events and the continued opening of its deli counter, have received huge support from customers.
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In the message, they wrote: “Over the last year, we have really had to change and adapt (if we didn’t, we would have gone under). It has given us a whole new lease of life and the support we have had for all the new things is phenomenal – we are so appreciative.
“Our restaurants may be empty but our online based tastings, cookalongs and quizzes are enabling us to connect with a much broader range of people all over the UK and bring some enjoyment and fun into people’s homes.
(Image: Liverpool Echo)
“These will be a permanent feature of Lunya, they won’t stop when lockdown finishes, as they are too popular and too much fun, especially for those, for whatever reason, cannot get to us.”
Peter and Elaine said that in the coming months, they’ll be hosting many more events such as quizzes and cook-alongs, which have been popular during lockdown.
They also shared information on their upcoming events – such as the Abba-theme Spanish food, drink and music quiz – before thanking fans for all of their support.
They said the support of their customers ‘keeps them going’ and that they “can’t wait’ to be fully open again.
Peter and Elaine wrote: “Your support really does keep us going. That is why we are still here and forever in your debt.
“Your generosity in thinking about us and supporting us is so much appreciated. We can’t wait to be fully open again and welcoming you back. Thank you, our very best wishes & stay safe.”
Lunya’s deli remains open Monday to Saturday from 11am – 6pm and on Sundays from 11am to 5pm.
You can also visit Lunya for hot food takeaway on selected days – you can find the times here.
