Pret a Manger to open at UK Roadchef motorway services

Pret A Manger is set to open shops at its UK motorway service stations after announcing a partnership with Roadchef.
The UK-based sandwich and coffee chain will open at Chester services on the M56 before Christmas and at Clacket Lane West on the M25 in the spring.
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Pret A Manger opened its first motorway service station shop at Welcome Break’s South Mimms services on the M25 as part of a trial partnership.
The deal with Roadchef, which owns 30 sites, would enable it to expand on this.
“Pret’s fast service is perfect for busy travellers, and we are looking forward to increasing our presence on motorways in the UK.,” said Pret A Manger CEO Clive Schlee.
“Our shops will obviously have their own kitchens on the premises, which ensure that our food will be freshly prepared throughout the day.”
Motorway service stations have increasingly attracted a wide range of franchises with the likes of Marks & Spencer, Starbucks and Costa Coffee becoming regular fixtures in UK motorways.
As trading on the high street becomes tougher, service stations are seen as key target location that could promote drive-thru sales.
First opening in London in 1986, Pret a Manger has around 500 locations in seven countries.
It is owned by private equity house Bridgepoint who also owns Zizzi and ASK Italian parent Azzuri Group.