Luke Johnson acquires the Light cinema and leisure operator

Hospitality entrepreneur Luke Johnson has acquired UK cinema and leisure operator the Light.

Johnson’s Risk Capital Partners, which also backs Tortilla and All Star Lanes, has bought the business with a co-investment from Melcorpo.

The Light operates 13 cinema and entertainment venues, which include bowling alleys, mini golf and climbing walls alongside a food and drink offer.

Since launching in 2007 it has opened in locations such as Addlestone, Sheffield, Stockport, Cambridge, Redhill, and Bolton. Several developments are in the pipeline, including plans to repurpose an old department store.

The deal is supported by a new banking facility which will enable the business to invest over £15m over the next two years with the aim of doubling in size.

It comes after Johnson sold contract caterer Genuine Dining to Westbury Street Holdings last month after 14 years as an investor.

Johnson said: “I have spent 40 years building businesses in the leisure and hospitality sectors, ranging from Pizza Express to Gail’s. We think the combination of cinema together with competitive socialising is a compelling offer for both consumers and landlords and believe the disruption facing the cinema industry provides opportunities.

“The Light model offers a long-term, exciting solution to the challenges facing high street and existing cinema locations rather than short term fixes.”

The Light was previously backed by investment firm Connection Capital.