Pret a Manger CEO to step down

Pret a Manger CEO Clive Schlee will retire from his role at the cafe chain after 16 years, he will maintain a role as non-executive director to ease the transition period.

Current chief operating officer (COO) Pano Christou will take over day-to-day running of the company which has over 550 stores across nine markets and recently acquired competitor EAT.

Schlee said: “There is never an easy time to stop being CEO of a wonderful company, but with the completion of our EAT deal tomorrow, and the roll out of the Pret Allergy Plan, now is a good time for a new CEO to take Pret on the next stage of its journey. I’m really pleased Pano is taking over. He knows our shops through and through and will keep Pret true to the values that have underpinned its success.”

Pano Christou started as an assistant manager in Carnaby St Pret 19 years ago, working his way up to become managing director of Pret UK in 2014 and COO at the start of this year.

Chirstou added: “I am honoured to follow Clive as CEO. Pret has big plans for the next few years – integrating EAT, developing Veggie Pret, delivering our digital transformation, and leading the way in supporting customers with allergies. I want to thank Clive for his leadership over the last 16 years, and we look forward to building on his legacy.”