Pret A Manger is preparing to debut its first drive-thru in early 2026, according to its CEO.
Pano Christou told The Sunday Times that the coffee and sandwich chain sees potential for “300 to 400 travel locations” across airports, train stations, and motorway services.
Pret entered the motorway services market in 2016 and now operates roughly 60 locations. The company intends to add 30 more roadside branches in the coming year.
Its first drive-thru, expected to open “in the first three months of 2026,” is likely to be run by a franchise partner at a motorway service site.
The move would see Pret join other brands embracing drive-thrus, such as Caffè Nero, which opened its first 24-hour outlet last year, alongside North American players Popeyes, Wendy’s and Tim Hortons, each of which has added UK drive-thrus since 2021.
Costa and Starbucks established their UK drive-thru presence over a decade ago, whereas Greggs and Leon have launched outlets in the past few years.
Pret’s drive for greater convenience aligns with its plans to introduce a trial of a new meal deal.
Announcing plans earlier this month, Pret said it will pilot the format in Q4 2025 to introduce more “value-driven” offers to customers.
The chain has not specified the price, but according to The Guardian, the deal will cover a croissant and coffee for breakfast, a sandwich and crisps, and any lunch main with a snack and drink.
The launch comes after mixed results for Pret, which was bought by Panera Bread owner JAB Holdings for £1.5 billion in 2018.
Pret reported a 10% rise in global sales to £1.2 billion for the 12 months ending 2 January 2025, alongside a 36% increase in adjusted EBITDA to £98 million.
However, Pret posted a pre-tax loss of £525.5 million last year following a £552.9 million write-down, which the company said reflected the “uncertain” global economic environment and extra costs from the UK’s 2024 Autumn Budget, according to The Guardian.
Pret now has more than 700 stores worldwide, marking an 11% increase in 2024.