Pret a Manger to Open First Stores in South Africa in 2025

Pret a Manger, the popular UK-based food and coffee retailer, will officially enter the South African market in 2025. The first two stores are set to open in Melrose Arch in late January and the Rosebank Zone in late March or early April, marking the brand’s debut on the African continent.

Pret a Manger, known for its freshly made food and organic coffee, operates in 18 countries, including the USA, Canada, India, and Hong Kong. With its wide-ranging menu of sandwiches, salads, wraps, and baked goods, the brand is a global leader in the grab-and-go food space.

The Millat Group, which signed an exclusive license to operate Pret stores in Southern Africa, announced that the Melrose Arch store exterior is near completion, while construction of the Rosebank store is underway.

Future Expansion Plans

Beyond Johannesburg, additional Pret stores are planned for Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria, reflecting the Millat Group’s strategy of bringing global brands to South Africa. The group’s CEO, Hamza Farooqui, emphasized that this partnership aligns with their vision of fostering entrepreneurship, driving economic growth, and enhancing daily lives.

Pano Christou, CEO of Pret, added that the move into South Africa highlights the country’s vibrant economic potential and marks a significant step in Pret’s international expansion.

Other International Entrants to South Africa

Pret a Manger is part of a growing wave of international brands entering South Africa:

• JD Sports: The UK-based fashion and sports retailer opened its first store at Cape Town’s Canal Walk Mall in November 2024 and a second at Johannesburg’s Eastgate Mall in December.
• Norse Atlantic Airways: Introduced three weekly flights between London Gatwick and Cape Town, breaking the route monopoly held by British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.
• Park Hyatt Hotel: The Millat Group launched the luxury Park Hyatt Rosebank, redefining ultra-luxury hospitality in Johannesburg with a 31-key boutique property.

Pret a Manger’s launch in South Africa is an exciting addition to the country’s growing roster of international brands. With its focus on fresh, organic food and grab-and-go convenience, Pret is poised to bring a unique offering to South African consumers, starting with its Melrose Arch and Rosebank Zone stores in 2025.

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