Pret opens in Italy

Chef Express has acted on its exclusive agreement with Pret A Manger to launch the brand in Italy. The first outlet was opened recently at Milan Malpensa airport, the first of an ambitious development plan that should lead to a total of about 40 openings in the next few years. Three more launches are planned by the end of the year.

The new partnership marks another step in Pret’s ambitious growth plan to double the size of its business by expanding into new countries and regions around the world. Italy becomes the eigth country the chain has launched in since it announced plans to expand into five new markets by the end of 2023. Pret now has nearly 70 shops across Europe.

Pano Christou, chief executive officer (CEO) of Pret A Manger, said: “We know Pret has a huge fanbase in Europe, so I’m delighted to be bringing our freshly made food and organic coffee to even more people across the continent. Launching in Italy is a big moment for us and something I’ve been personally looking forward to.”

Cristian Biasoni, CEO of Chef Express, added: "We are very pleased to partner with Pret A Manger to bring the most famous chain for fresh food and organic coffee to Italy. Our family approach and values, combined with almost 40 years of history and the valuable expertise developed in all channels, are the basis of our success in the catering sector in Italy.”

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