2007 Third Place: Pret a Manger
14th November 2007, 10:01am
Consumers looking for a lunchtime sandwich which is a bit different are still beating a path to the doors of Pret a Manger.
Now with 195 outlets 'worldwide', the chain which prides itself on producing freshly made sandwiches every day, using quality ingredients and no additives, currently has locations in the UK, New York and Hong Kong, plus a joint venture in Singapore which opened last year.
New York is currently being targeted for major expansion, with 40 outlets planned in the next five years.
The chain, founded in 1986, benefited from McDonald's purchase of a 33% stake in 2001, which has helped with the international expansion.
A significant move into the sale of hot food items began with soup and has recently been augmented with hot wraps. Spicy Falafel Melt, Swedish Meatball Ragu and Jalapeno Chicken have so far appeared on the menu and others are expected.
© Eat Out Magazine