Pret A Manger to acquire EAT

The chain plans to convert "as many of EAT’s shops as possible" to Veggie Prets.

Pret A Manger has confirmed that it has reached an agreement to buy British food and drink retailer EAT.

The chain plans to convert "as many of EAT’s shops as possible" to Veggie Prets, said to be in response to growing consumer demand for more vegetarian and vegan options on the high street. The first permanent Veggie Pret was opened in September 2016 and has since expanded to three additional locations across London and Manchester.

“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," Pret CEO Clive Schlee said in an announcement.

“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 recognized through this transaction," EAT CEO Andrew Walker added. "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.”