Israeli office workers in need of a sandwich and takeaway coffee can rejoice: Pret A Manger is coming to the Jewish state.
The London-based food and drink chain has struck an agreement with retailer Fox Group and the Yarzin Sella Group to introduce the Pret brand in Israel.
The move is part of Pret A Manger’s plan to double the size of its business within the next five years.
The company, which was launched in Hampstead in 1983 as a single sandwich shop, plans to expand into five new markets by the end of 2023.
A raft of new franchise agreements in 2022 will see Pret launch in India, Spain and Portugal, while expanding its presence in the UAE and USA, alongside the UK.
It remains unclear exactly when or where the first Pret shop will open in Israel.
Likewise, no details have yet been provided on whether Pret's Italian Prosciutto Baguette will be ditched in favour of kosher options or hummus and falafel based meals.
Pano Christou, CEO of Pret A Manger, said: “We are still in the early stages but are delighted to have reached an initial agreement to bring Pret’s freshly made food and organic coffee to customers in Israel.
"Over the past year we have stepped up our international expansion and growth plans, working with our franchise partners to introduce Pret to new markets.
"We’re looking forward to seeing how consumers in Israel respond to the great taste and innovation from Pret and hope we are a welcome addition to the food-to-go market for all.”
Harel Wiesel, CEO and owner of Fox Group, said: “The signing of MOU with the Pret A Manger chain and the Yarzin-Sella group for the establishment of the Pret A Manger chain in Israel is a significant step toward increasing competition, value, and variety for the benefit of Israeli consumers.
"Israeli consumers will benefit from an international brand and a variety of products that they love and look every time they visit Europe or the US, here in Israel, all over the country.”
