Pret a Manger

Introduction

Pret a Manger is a popular international sandwich shop chain based in the United Kingdom. Known for its fresh, ready-to-eat food, the company has locations in several countries around the world.

History

Pret a Manger was founded in London in 1983 by college friends Julian Metcalfe and Sinclair Beecham. The first shop was located in Hampstead, and the company quickly gained a reputation for its fresh, handmade sandwiches.

Business Model

The business model of Pret a Manger is unique in the fast food industry. The company prepares fresh food in each shop's kitchen every day. Any unsold food is donated to charities at the end of each day, rather than being kept for sale the following day.

Menu

The menu at Pret a Manger includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, wraps, and hot items, as well as a selection of drinks and snacks. The company is also known for its vegetarian and vegan options, and for its commitment to natural ingredients and avoiding preservatives and additives.

Expansion

Pret a Manger began expanding outside of the UK in the late 1990s, with the opening of a shop in New York City. Today, the company has locations in several countries, including the United States, France, and China.

Criticism and Controversy

Despite its success, Pret a Manger has faced criticism and controversy over the years. This includes criticism over its treatment of employees, as well as controversy over allergen labelling following the death of a customer in 2016.

See Also

• List of sandwich shops
• Fast food in the United Kingdom
• History of fast food

External Links

• Official website