Eat appoints Mike Rainer as MD

Sandwich chain Eat has appointed Mike Rainer as its new MD, after the company was acquired by Pret a Manger earlier this year.

Rainer recently the CFO, will take on additional responsibilities as managing director, as the business continues to trade as a separate entity.

Alongside the promotion, Eat has also announced the departure of CEO Andrew Walker after three years in the role to “pursue other interests”.

Rainer said: “I would like to thank Andrew for his leadership and vision over the last few years and I’m pleased to continue his work by steering Eat through the next stage as we integrate with Pret. The vast majority of our colleagues will be staying on at the combined Group and our customers will continue to benefit from our creativity and drive for excellence.”

Walker added: “I am unbelievably proud of my last three years leading Eat through a significant period of change. Helped by the fantastic team from the ground up, we were able to turn around the business – evidenced by our last financial year where we saw a significant improvement in our trading performance sparking Pret’s interest.

“Mike was a key part of this success, so I leave Eat in very capable hands. I now look forward to taking a much needed break before considering my options in the future.”