Pret A Manger to acquire Eats

UK-based sandwich shop chain, Pret A Manger has its agreement to buy British food and drink retailer, EAT. Pret A Manger plans to convert a lot of the EAT outlets to ‘Veggie Prets’ as the demand for vegetarian and vegan options increase on the high streets of the UK.

In 2016, the Veggie Pret has opened. Over the years, three more locations came up across London and Manchester. This acquisition is expected to significantly accelerate the growth of this brand.

“The purpose of this deal is to serve a growing demand of vegetarian and vegan customers who want delicious, high quality food and drink options. We have been developing the Veggie Pret concept for over two years and we now have four hugely successful shops across London and Manchester. The acquisition of the EAT estate is a wonderful opportunity to turbo charge the development of Veggie Pret and put significant resources behind it,” said Clive Schlee, CEO, Pret.

“Pret is a fantastic brand and this transaction represents a strong strategic fit with benefits for all concerned. I would like to thank Andrew Walker and his team for the outstanding job they have done revitalising the brand and business in the last few years and the company’s shareholders and lenders for their support,” added Andrew Aylwin, chairman of EAT.

“EAT’s passionate and talented team are what make the business; their commitment to providing our customers with great food and excellent service is at the heart of the company’s outstanding recent performance. I am delighted that their efforts have been recognised through this transaction. It has been a privilege to lead EAT for the past 3 years, and I believe this acquisition creates new opportunities for employees and customers alike,” concluded Andrew Walker, CEO, EAT.