Major UK cafe chain to open first ever drive-thru in May – and plans 400 more | UK | News
A popular British chain will open its first drive-thru this May. Unlike some of its rivals, Pret A Manger has not previously had a drive-thru, but that is set to change. Pret is the top coffee shop choice for many Brits. Pret is a favorite of many people with its hot drinks, pastries and sandwiches.
The chain is a high street staple for lunch, breakfast or a coffee break. It will now be available to drivers as well. While the location of the first drive-through is top secret, it will be tucked into a roadside forecourt. The site is being launched in partnership with gas station operator Motor Fuel Group.
Customers can see nearly 400 travel-friendly locations opening across the country, allowing Pret to compete with other big names such as Costa and Starbucks.
Pret has around 60 walkable roadside locations and has another 30 set to open, including new drive-thru stores. Pret aims to expand from 500 to 1,500 stores across the UK.
Its rivals, Starbucks and Costa, have been in stores much longer.
Starbucks opened its first drive-thru in Cardiff in 2008 and Costa opened its first drive-thru in Nottingham in 2011.
Clare Clough, Pret’s managing director for the UK and Europe, said: “Over the last five years we’ve made it a priority to bring Pret to more people, whether you’re a City worker heading into the office, a parent juggling work and family life, or someone chatting with friends.
“We are now taking this further and making Pret a destination for slightly less rushed customers who want a relaxed space to enjoy delicious food and spend time with family and friends.
“Our teams have been working hard to make sure everything from store design to unique menu items has been carefully considered, and we can’t wait to see how our customers respond.”
Pret says on its website: “Since we opened our first store in 1986, Pret’s mission has been simple.
“Offering freshly made food and good organic coffee and also trying to do the right thing.
“That’s why our food is handmade in our store kitchens throughout the day, and anything we don’t sell goes to charity.
“That’s why our coffee is (and always will be) organic and why our Coffee Fund supports the next generation of farmers. We think that’s (partly) what makes Pret special.”
