Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, is best known for his stellar achievements on the track. However, he also delved into the world of business with an intriguing venture alongside Hollywood heavyweight Leonardo DiCaprio. The duo co-owned Neat Burger, a vegan fast food chain aimed at providing plant-based alternatives to traditional fast food options. Nevertheless, the business has faced a significant setback as all of its UK outlets have been forced to close their doors, resulting in around 150 jobs being lost.
The closure comes after the company experienced substantial financial losses in 2023, leading to the shutdown of half of its London branches and its sole outlet in New York. Despite attempts to focus on their best-performing restaurants, the challenges proved insurmountable, leading to the ultimate decision to cease operations in the UK. By 2025, only two UK locations remained operational, and now they too have been affected by the closure.
The financial struggles of Neat Burger were evident, with losses amounting to £7.9 million in 2025, a significant increase from £3.2 million in 2021. The initial vision of creating sustainable and delicious plant-based dishes seemed promising, but the business was unable to sustain its operations in the competitive market. The company spokesperson confirmed the closure, expressing the difficulty of the decision but refraining from further elaboration on the matter.
When Neat Burger was launched in 2019, Lewis Hamilton voiced his excitement about the brand and its ethos. His passion for promoting sustainability and ethical practices was evident, as he highlighted the importance of offering a high street option that catered to individuals following a plant-based diet. Hamilton’s own journey towards veganism in 2017 played a significant role in his involvement with the brand, as he became an advocate for healthier and more environmentally friendly food choices.
The shift towards veganism was a conscious decision for Hamilton, driven by his awareness of the ethical and environmental implications of meat consumption. His dedication to the cause extended beyond his personal choices, as he ensured that even his beloved dogs followed an all-vegan diet. Hamilton’s participation in the documentary ‘The Game Changers’ further solidified his commitment to spreading awareness about veganism and its benefits, alongside influential figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The documentary ‘What The Health’ served as a pivotal moment for Hamilton, shedding light on the moral dilemmas surrounding the meat and dairy industries. This revelation strengthened his resolve to embrace veganism wholeheartedly and advocate for a lifestyle that aligned with his values. The closure of Neat Burger’s UK outlets marks a bittersweet chapter in Hamilton’s business ventures, reflecting the challenges faced in promoting sustainable and ethical practices in the fast-food industry.
Despite the closure of Neat Burger, Lewis Hamilton’s dedication to advocating for a more sustainable and compassionate world remains unwavering. His influence extends beyond the racing track, as he continues to use his platform to champion causes that resonate with him. The closure of the vegan fast food chain serves as a reminder of the difficulties businesses may face, even with high-profile backers, in a competitive market driven by changing consumer preferences and economic realities.