Pret a Manger is opening its first site in Africa, located in Johannesburg, South Africa. The new location marks the 20th international market for the sandwich chain.
According to Pret, £1 in every £4 spent in Pret now comes from outside the UK. The chain reported worldwide sales above £1.1bn in 2023, boosted by “international expansion and new franchise partnerships”.
Pret is operating with South African franchise partner Millat Group to expand in the new market. Pret A Manger CEO Pano Christou said: “Bringing Pret’s freshly made food and organic coffee to the African continent for the first time marks a major milestone in our international expansion. Partnering with the Millat Group to launch Pret in South Africa is hugely exciting, with our Johannesburg shop set to be the first of many in the South African market.“This opening is an important step in Pret’s global journey. South Africa’s dynamic food culture and vibrant community made Johannesburg the perfect location for our first shop on the continent,” said Pret CEO Pano Christou.
“We’re thrilled to bring a touch of Pret to this incredible city while incorporating South African flavours into our menu.”
Millat Group CEO, Hamza Farooqui, and Pret a Manger CEO, Pano Christou.
CEO of Millat Group Hamza Farooqui added: “We are incredibly excited to bring Pret a Manger to South Africa. “The partnership aligns with Millat’s vision of fostering entrepreneurship within South Africa, driving economic growth and providing a service that will enhance the daily lives of South Africans. We look forward to welcoming customers right across the country in the coming months and years.”
“This is not just about opening new shops, it’s about introducing an entirely new café culture, one that revolves around freshly handmade food and commitment to quality.”
