Pret a Manger announced plans to open 20 shops across the island of Ireland in the next 10 years together with Carebrook Partnership Limited as the franchise partner for the expansion that will bring around 500 new jobs. The first shop is set to open on Dawson Street in Dublin this summer, creating 25 jobs in the city.

Carebrook Partnership Ltd has been working with Pret for 30 years, overseeing many shops in London, including Camden, Belsize Park and Finchley, the sandwich shop chain said in an announcement. The franchise agreement follows Pret’s announcement last year that it would aim to double the size of the business within five years, including launching into five new markets by the end of 2023.

As part of the expansion, Pret is also rolling out a recruitment program, looking to hire at least 3,000 employees (including baristas) globally. Earlier this year, Pret announced it would invest over GBP 9.2 million in staff pay, its biggest pay and benefits increase in its 36-year history.

Pano Christou, Chief Executive Officer at Pret A Manger said: “Setting up shop in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland has been our plan for a long time, and we’re thrilled that we’re finally able to make it happen. There has long been demand from our neighbors on the island of Ireland to bring Pret’s freshly prepared food and organic coffee, and now with the backing of Carebrook Partnership Ltd we’re able to do so. We look forward to making this partnership a success.”

Pret is planning to roll out full ingredient labeling to shops in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland as part of Pret’s Allergy Plan. Full ingredient labels will be rolled out on all freshly made products to ensure that customers have the information they need.

Photo: Pret a Manger social media