The article explores the history of Pret a Manger, focusing on its origins and the complexities of its brand narrative. While a blue plaque claims that the first branch opened in Westminster in 1986, the truth is more nuanced, as the original shop was started in Hampstead and soon failed. After acquiring the brand from the original founder, Julian Metcalfe and Sinclair Beecham successfully reopened the store in Westminster. Today, Pret is a well-established presence in London, with 274 branches, making it iconic in the city's landscape and a necessity for visitors.
The blue plaque at 93-95 Victoria Street claims that the first Pret a Manger opened here, but the reality is more complicated; the original shop opened in Hampstead and went bust a year later.
Pret a Manger's neat storytelling airbrushes its rocky beginnings; the brand we know today is a result of a name and logo sold after the first shop's failure.
Despite its controversial legacy, Pret has exploded in London, boasting 274 branches that have made it synonymous with the capital; it's become a must-visit for tourists.
As I stroll through the City with historian Jack Chesher, the sheer number of Prets around is staggering, making it clear they have firmly established their footprint across London.
Collection
[
|
...
]