Latest News - Prosecutions

Popular bakery chain Ole & Steen has been forced to pay more than £34,000 after a council investigation found serious food hygiene failings. 

Westminster City Council successfully prosecuted the Danish bakery at Westminster Magistrates Court in 10 June 2026, after an investigation at their flagship Haymarket branch found significant evidence of mouse infestation, droppings, and poor hygiene practices. 

Westminster City Council environmental health inspectors undertook a routine inspection at the Haymarket branch of Ole & Steen (56, No 2 Haymarket, St James's Market, London SW1Y) in January 2025.

Officers identified evidence of significant mouse activity throughout food preparation and storage areas, including fresh mouse droppings in multiple locations. Officers also identified a number of poor food hygiene practices that presented a risk of cross-contamination.

Crucially, the investigation found that the business had already been made aware of the pest issues through its pest control contractor prior to the inspection but had failed to take action.

The council's investigation included a detailed inspection of the premises, review of pest control records, photographic evidence, and assessment of the food safety management systems in place. It concluded that although procedures existed on paper, they had not been effectively implemented in practice.

The case was heard at Westminster Magistrates Court on 10 June 2026 and it was found that the company had failed to protect food from contamination risks associated with pest activity and poor hygiene controls. The business pleaded guilty and was fined £26,000, with costs the total financial penalty was £34,847.

The Court placed significant weight on the fact that the business had prior knowledge of the issues but failed to take effective action before the council's intervention.

For more information CLICK HERE

‹ Back Other News ›