Pret A Manger reports 7–8% UK sales growth in early 2026 

UK – Pret A Manger has reported a strong start to 2026, with system sales in the United Kingdom (UK) growing by 7% to 8% during the first four months of the year, supported by rising customer numbers and continued expansion of its store network. 

The company said the performance builds on full-year system sales of £1.2 billion in 2025, representing a 2.7% increase on a constant currency basis after adjusting for a reduced trading week. Pret also reported an operating profit of £37 million for the year. 

Despite what it described as a challenging macroeconomic environment, the food-to-go retailer attributed its growth to a focus on freshly prepared food, barista-made beverages, and continued investment in customer service and operational efficiency. 

The company has introduced new menu items including half-size baguettes and wraps targeting lower-priced and lighter meal occasions, alongside new matcha drinks and a larger coffee serving size aimed at broadening customer choice. 

Pret said it has also increased investment in shop teams, equipment, and maintenance, while strengthening barista training to improve coffee quality and consistency across its stores. 

The brand’s international footprint continues to expand, with its global estate now exceeding 750 shops across 21 countries, reflecting a 5% year-on-year increase. In the UK, growth has been supported by new openings in transport hubs and roadside locations, including its first drive-thru outlet in Warrington. 

“We are encouraged by our start to 2026, particularly as more customers are choosing Pret despite the financial pressure many households continue to face,” said Pret A Manger Chief Executive Officer Pano Christou. 

Christou added: “Over the past few years, we have invested significantly in our menu and in better value for money for our customers, while also continuing to support our amazing Team Members and improve the Pret customer experience.” 

“These results give us confidence that when we stay focused on the customer, we can continue to win the hearts and minds of Pret fans in the UK and around the world,” he said. 

Alongside its performance in Europe, Pret has also reshaped its international strategy, withdrawing from a franchise agreement in the United States after two years. 

The company previously entered a joint venture with Dallas Holdings in October 2023 under Empire JointStar to accelerate US expansion. The partnership covered around 50 stores across cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington DC. 

However, Pret has since ended the agreement following weaker sales performance at franchised locations and has repurchased the stores. The company said the move is intended to support its strategy to grow and expand the brand in the US market. 

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