Pret A Manger plans to enter into Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
May 21 - 2022
Coffee Geography Magazine
For the first time, Prêt à manger is looking for a new market, not far from its headquarters in England to expand into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Its long time franchise partner, Carebrook Partnership Ltd will join Pret in Ireland to serve the Irish market. In addition, minority co-owner Ray McNamara from Dublin with 25 years’ experience in the Irish food industry, including ownership of Ann’s Bakery will be part of the joint venture.
In the first phase, Pret is expected to open 20 shops across Ireland over the next decade creating over 500 jobs. Pret is in expanding mode globally by creating 3000 skilled staff including baristas. Its commitment includes the investment of over € 9 million in wage increase which is the first rise in its 36 years history.
Pret’s CEO, Pano Christou
Pano Christou, Chief Executive Officer at Prêt à manger said: “Setting up shop in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland has been our plan for a long time, and we’re thrilled that we’re finally able to make it happen. There has long been demand from our neighbours on the island of Ireland to bring Pret’s freshly prepared food and organic coffee, and now with the backing of Carebrook Partnership Ltd we’re able to do so. We look forward to making this partnership a success.”
Gerard Loughran, CEO, Carebrook Partnership Ltd said: "We’ve been working with Pret for over three decades, ever since they arrived in London. Having grown up in Tipperary, and with more than two decades of experience in the hospitality and food industry, I’ve always wanted to bring Pret to Ireland and Northern Ireland, so I’m delighted that this will soon become a reality alongside my co-owner Ray, who has great connections and links to the food sector in Dublin with 25 years’ experience. We look forward to welcoming our new customers, soon.”
Prêt à manger is an international coffee shop franchise chain based in the United Kingdom, popularly referred to as simply Pret. Founded in 1983, Pret currently has over 460 shops in the UK, with 324 locations in London alone. Jeffrey Hyman founded the first Prêt à manger in London on 21 October 1983. The first Prêt à manger shop opened in Hampstead, London, in 1984. The name Prêt à Manger, ready to eat was based on prêt-à-porter, French for "ready-to-wear" clothing.