Inside Canada's First Standalone Pret A Manger

U.K.-based Pret A Manger has opened its first standalone Canadian restaurant in downtown Toronto.

Founded in 1986 in London, the cafe has expanded globally throughout Europe, Asia and into North America with its first foray into the Canadian market through a partnership with A&W in 2022.

“This expansion into Canada is a natural next step for Pret globally,” shared Jorrie Bruffett, President, Pret A Manger North Amerca. “We are committed to bringing the Pret brand to more people, wherever they are and after the warm welcome from locals at our Pret pop-ups in Canada, we’re excited to continue expanding our footprint and menu offerings to more Canadians.”

Pret A Manger Toronto at 90 Adelaide St E (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

There are going to be differences between the Toronto/Vancouver pop-ups and the permanent location that opened this morning at 90 Adelaide Street in the Financial District, with spacing requirements, branding and the menu lineup.

The expanded breakfast and lunch offerings, including soups, sandwiches, salads and wraps are all prepared in the onsite kitchen. The drink menu is comparable to the other brands in the neighbourhood, with hot and iced coffees, teas and grab-and-go options.

With the store being across the street from First Canadian Place and The PATH, the destination-focused shopper will be looking for a different experience than the coffee and lunch quick service offerings in the food court and throughout the underground shopping centre.

There are two lines, which allows for a separation of customers looking to get food with those who are looking at purchasing beverages. From a CX side of the conversation, having this distinction brings a speed element for those getting drinks and an opportunity for customers to browse without issue for the food section.

Pricing, speed and quality will all be top of mind for the brand as it continues to expand its footprint within the Canadian market.

Retail Insider will continue to cover this story, including the next stages of expansion and how the standalone stores will complement or compete with the pop-ups at A&W locations.