Pret A Manger to open first South African store at Melrose Arch

SOUTH AFRICA – British multinational sandwich and coffee shop Pret A Manger is set to make its debut in South Africa, with its first outlet opening at Johannesburg’s Melrose Arch precinct on 14 February 2025. 

This launch marks Pret’s first foray into the African market and its 20th international market outside the United Kingdom (UK).

Pret’s international expansion strategy has played a significant role in its recent financial success, with £1(US$1.24) in every £4 (US$4.94) spent by Pret customers coming from outside the UK. 

In 2023, the company reported worldwide system sales of £1.1 billion (US$1.36 billion), reflecting a 22% increase compared to 2022.

“This opening is an important step in Pret’s global journey,” said Pano Christou, CEO of Pret A Manger. 

“South Africa’s dynamic food culture and vibrant community made Johannesburg the perfect location for our first shop on the continent. We’re thrilled to bring a touch of Pret to this incredible city while incorporating South African flavours into our menu.”

Locally inspired menu

Pret’s Melrose Arch shop will offer a combination of its signature classics and South African-inspired menu items. 

Exclusive local offerings include the Soutvleis Sandwich and Braaibroodjie Toastie, alongside a variety of freshly handmade sandwiches, salads, wraps, and breakfast options. 

Customers can also enjoy Pret’s classic barista-prepared organic coffees, organic juices, health shots, teas, smoothies, and iced beverages.

Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group, Pret’s local franchise partner, expressed enthusiasm about the brand’s entry into South Africa. 

“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 a commitment to quality,” he said.

Strong global presence

Pret A Manger, founded in London in 1986, has grown into a globally recognized food-to-go brand, currently operating over 700 outlets in 20 markets. 

While the majority of its stores remain in the UK, the brand has expanded rapidly in recent years, with successful ventures in markets such as the United States, Hong Kong, France, India, Canada, and several European and Middle Eastern countries.

In 2024, the Millat Group signed a landmark development agreement with Pret A Manger, granting the private equity firm exclusive rights to operate Pret shops in Southern Africa. 

The deal aligns with Millat’s long-term strategy to expand into the organic and sustainable food sector.

Competition in South Africa’s coffee market

Pret’s entry into South Africa places it in direct competition with established coffee brands such as Starbucks, Seattle Coffee Company, and Vida e Caffè. 

Other independent café operators, including The Grind Coffee Company, Hello Sunshine, and Mr George, also have a presence in Melrose Arch, making it a highly competitive space for premium coffee and quick-service food offerings.

Record of growth and innovation

In 2023, Pret achieved a record number of store openings, launching 81 new shops worldwide, with more than half located outside the UK. 

Its rapid expansion in India, where 15 shops opened across Mumbai and Delhi within a year, represents the brand’s fastest market growth to date. 

The company has successfully met its five-year business expansion target three years ahead of schedule, demonstrating strong demand for its products globally.

“I am so proud of the progress we have made over the last three years,” Christou stated. 

“We set tough targets to get Pret going again after the pandemic, and we have delivered on these targets. The fact that £1 in every £4 is now spent outside the UK shows the global appetite for Pret’s menu and unique range of ingredients and recipes.”