Photo: Eatbook
A deal to launch branches of the British coffee and sandwich restaurant Pret A Manger in India has been announced by a company owned by Asia’s wealthiest person.
The Indian food and drink market is growing quickly, with Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries unit, Reliance Brands, entering into a franchise contract to open the first-ever retail outlet for his company.
The first branch of the chain will be launched in Mumbai next year.
“Our partnership with Pret is rooted in the strong growth potential of both Pret as a brand… also of the food and beverage industry in India,” said Reliance Brands’ managing director.
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The chief executive of Pret A Manger, Darshan Mehta, added, “We’re looking forward to working with them on what is our most ambitious global franchise partnership to date.”
In 1983, Pret A Manger, which translates to “ready to eat,” launched in London. And after a year, they opened their first shop. Following the original company’s liquidation issue, the brand was purchased by college friends Sinclair Beecham and Julian Metcalfe in their first opening in 1986.
The global brand has over 550 branches in nine markets, including the UK, US, Europe, and Asia.
Reliance Industries revealed last year that they had a franchise deal with America’s convenience store giant 7-Eleven, helping toughen the firm’s place as India’s biggest bricks and mortar retailer.
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