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Pret a Manger CEO Pano Christou and Millat Group CEO Hamza Farooqui inaugurating the new shop

Pret a Manger is opening its first site in Africa, located in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The new location marks the 20th international market for the sandwich chain.

According to Pret, £1 in every £4 spent in Pret now comes from outside the UK.

The chain reported worldwide sales above £1.1bn in 2023, boosted by “international expansion and new franchise partnerships”.

Pret is operating with South African franchise partner Millat Group to expand in the new market.

“This opening is an important step in Pret’s global journey. South Africa’s dynamic food culture and vibrant community made Johannesburg the perfect location for our first shop on the continent,” said Pret CEO Pano Christou.

“We’re thrilled to bring a touch of Pret to this incredible city while incorporating South African flavours into our menu.”

CEO of Millat Group Hamza Farooqui added: “We are incredibly excited to bring Pret a Manger to South Africa.

“This is not just about opening new shops, it’s about introducing an entirely new café culture, one that revolves around freshly handmade food and commitment to quality.”

The new location will open in Johannesburg’s residential quarter Melrose Arch on 14 February.