A premium bakery chain has been ordered to pay £34,000 after its flagship London store was found to have a serious mouse infestation. Ole&Steen's Haymarket branch was discovered to be covered in mouse droppings and had other significant hygiene issues.
Routine inspection uncovers failings
Environmental health officers from Westminster City Council conducted a routine inspection in January 2025. They found mouse droppings and evidence of rodent activity throughout food preparation and storage areas. The bakery had already been warned about the problems by another pest control contractor before the inspection, but no effective action was taken.
Poor hygiene practices
In addition to the pest issues, there were several poor food hygiene practices that posed a risk of cross-contamination. The company pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday to failing to protect food from contamination risks associated with pest activity and poor hygiene controls.
Fine and costs
Ole&Steen was fined £26,000 and ordered to pay £8,847 in costs, bringing the total to £34,847. Councillor Caroline Sargent, deputy leader and cabinet member for enforcement, said: 'We expect the highest possible food hygiene standards for our residents and visitors, and we will not tolerate a half-baked approach to safety.' She added that the prosecution sends a message that Westminster City Council will not sugar-coat the facts when it comes to public safety.
Company response
A spokesperson for Ole&Steen stated: 'In late 2024, the conditions at our St James's Market store fell below the standard our customers expect and the standard we hold ourselves to. We immediately closed the store to address the issue and re-opened two days later. WCC visited while we were taking action and this location has now been awarded 4 stars for hygiene and cleanliness.' They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the highest food safety and hygiene standards across all stores.
