At the end of October, the Economic Activities Tribunal of Lyon placed Le République into judicial recovery. This announcement has shaken up the small world of Lyon's restaurant scene. Nestled in the Place de l’Hôpital, right behind the Grand Hôpital-Dieu, this bustling brasserie with its always-crowded terrace has been a fixture for 17 years. Its owner, Aurélien Liveneau, prefers to stay resilient despite the storm, expressing in comments shared by Lyon Décideurs: « We remain optimistic; we have what it takes to pull through ».
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Disappointing numbers and significant PGE burdens
With declining attendance and repayments of state-backed loans, the brewery is facing the harsh effects of the post-Covid era. "We lost 20% of our revenue in two years, and the PGE loans are due in July," explains the owner. Payment delays are piling up, causing cash flow to dwindle. Judicial reorganization isn't the end; rather, it's a chance to breathe a little, spread out the debt, and find a stable course.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
A determined leader ready to steer the ship
The judicial recovery only concerns Le République and not the entire group Kaizen Concept, which also manages Le Splendid and Bistrot Autrement. Despite the situation, Aurélien Liveneau continues to move forward, with a continuation plan set for a year from now. The businessman, discreet yet solid, fully embraces his decision: “This collective procedure was necessary. I took my responsibilities.”
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
An iconic bar-restaurant, a favorite spot for OL fans and a political meeting place, Le République remains a cornerstone of the Presqu'île. The closure is definitely not on the agenda: the ship might be swaying, but the crew is determined to bring it back to safe harbor.
Address: Place de l'hôpital, 19 Rue Louis Paufique, 69002 Lyon, FranceSource: Lyon Décideurs