Pret A Manger to create 500 jobs with all-Ireland expansion
One of the UK’s biggest sandwich chains is coming to Ireland, with plans to create 500 jobs in 20 stores on both sides of the border.
Pret A Manger, which has more than 460 stores across the water, will open the first of these on Dublin’s Dawson Street this summer and plans to open the rest within the next 10 years.
The decision to expand to the Republic and NI came after it reached an agreement with franchise partner Carebrook Partnership Ltd.
Carebrook, which is led by two Irishmen, is one of Pret’s longest-serving franchise partners and has worked with Pret for three decades overseeing shops in London.
Majority co-owner Gerard Loughran grew up in Nenagh, Co Tipperary, and has over 30 years’ experience in the UK and US food sector, while minority co-owner Ray McNamara from Dublin has 25 years’ experience in the Irish food industry, including ownership of Ann’s Bakery.
The franchise agreement follows Pret’s announcement last year that it would aim to double the size of the business within five years.
Pano Christou, chief executive of the business, said: “Setting up shop in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland has been our plan for a long time and we’re thrilled that we’re finally able to make it happen.
“There has long been demand from our neighbours on the island of Ireland to bring Pret’s freshly prepared food and organic coffee and, now with the backing of Carebrook Partnership Ltd, we’re able to do so.”
Carebrook director Mr Loughran addedL “We’ve been working with Pret for over three decades, ever since they arrived in London.
“Having grown up in Tipperary, and with more than two decades of experience in the hospitality and food industry, I’ve always wanted to bring Pret to Ireland and Northern Ireland, so I’m delighted that this will soon become a reality alongside my co-owner, Ray, who has great connections and links to the food sector in Dublin with 25 years’ experience.
“We look forward to welcoming our new customers soon.”
