A&W Food Services of Canada Inc., which holds the exclusive Canadian rights to develop and operate the globally recognized fresh food and organic coffee brand, Pret A Manger, announced Wednesday a significant expansion of Pret’s Canadian presence. Following the successful launch of Pret’s second Canadian shop in downtown Toronto’s financial district in January, multiple new Pret shops are now slated to open at major Canadian airports, including Vancouver International Airport (YVR), beginning this summer.
The first Canadian Pret airport location is expected to open in the international terminal at YVR in early June, with additional airport openings anticipated to continue through the second half of 2026. In total, four new Pret locations are currently planned at Canadian airports this year, bringing Pret’s freshly made food, organic coffee, and grab-and-go convenience to millions of Canadian and international travellers, said the company.
Pret’s Canadian airport expansion reflects growing demand from travellers for premium, fresh, and convenient food offerings while reinforcing Pret’s long-term commitment to growth across Canada, according to a news release.
A&W’s Pret Canada business is being led by Paul Hughes, Managing Director. Hughes is a seasoned restaurant industry executive, having previously served in senior leadership roles at Canadian QSR/franchised brands, including at Freshii, where he helped support the brand’s expansion and operational growth across North America. In this role, Hughes is also leading Pret’s Canadian growth strategy, including expansion in transit and urban markets across the country, said the brand.
“Airports are a natural fit for Pret,” said Hughes. “Travellers today are looking for food that is fresh, high quality, and fast — whether they’re grabbing a coffee before an early flight or looking for a healthier meal option while in transit. Pret delivers that experience in a way that’s convenient, consistent, and genuinely enjoyable.”
Ben Ma, Vancouver Airport Authority’s Director of Retail Passenger Experience, said: “At YVR, we’re continually looking for opportunities to elevate our food and beverage offering and enhance the passenger experience. The arrival of Pret A Manger adds another globally recognized brand to our airport and is part of our broader strategy to provide travellers with more convenient and healthy choices throughout their journey.”
“Canada represents an important growth opportunity for Pret,” Hughes added. “We’re seeing strong consumer demand for fresh, high-quality food served quickly and conveniently. We’re excited not only about our airport growth, but also about working with our franchise partners to expand Pret into more cities and transit locations across Canada in the years ahead.”
More from Retail Insider:
- Pret A Manger to Expand Across Canada with Standalone Locations Following 2-Year A&W Trial
- A&W Canada Partners with Pret A Manger Coffee
