Pret A Manger to trial new store format aimed at hybrid workers
The new concept will also include more space for dine-in customers, a dedicated children’s play area called the Little Stars Café, and full porcelain crockery
Pret A Manger is set to trial a new shop format designed for hybrid workers, with made-to-order food and expanded seating.
Launching this month in Broughty Ferry and Maidenhead, the new stores are part of Pret’s ongoing expansion beyond London and its efforts to adapt to shifting work and lifestyle patterns.
Unlike the typical “grab-and-go” format common in London outlets, these new shops will feature a longer counter for made-to-order items and just one refrigerated shelf for ready-to-go products.
The new concept will also include more space for dine-in customers, a dedicated children’s play area called the Little Stars Café, and full porcelain crockery.
The menu has been developed specifically for these shops and includes ciabattas, sourdough toasties, savoury croissants, sweet tarts and cakes.
New breakfast options and a roasted organic coffee blend, exclusive to the format, will also be available alongside Pret’s classic range.
According to Pret, the concept supports its plan to serve more communities across the UK. The company now has 500 shops nationwide, with 82% of new UK openings since January 2023 located outside London.
The Maidenhead and Broughty Ferry shops will be operated by franchise partners Hala Group and Joup Group respectively.
Clare Clough, Pret’s managing director for UK and Europe, said: “Throughout the past five years, we’ve made it a priority to bring Pret to more people, whether you’re a City worker commuting to the office, a parent juggling work and family life, or someone catching up with friends.
“Now, we’re taking that further, making Pret a destination for customers in a bit less of a rush who want a comfortable space to enjoy delicious food and spend time with family and friends. Our teams have been hard at work making sure everything from the shop design to the unique menu items have been carefully thought through and we can’t wait to see how our customers respond.”
Ahmed Alani, chief executive of Hala Group, added: “We are proud to partner with Pret to open this incredible new shop in Maidenhead, a first for the town and one designed with the local customer in mind. As a local Maidenhead business, we’re excited to bring this new Pret concept and menu to our community.”
