Pret a Manger boss to retire as firm prepares for Eat merger
Pret a Manger’s boss is to step down later this year, making way for the firm’s chief operating officer to lead the group as it prepares for a major tie-up with rival Eat.
The sandwich chain’s boss Clive Schlee will retire in September after more than 15 years at the firm.
Read more: Pret a Manger acquires rival
Pano Christou, Pret’s chief operating officer (COO) who will replace Schlee, joined the company as an assistant manager in its Carnaby Street shop nearly two decades ago.
The move comes amid several strategic overhauls from Pret.
Those include a planned merger with rival Eat and a revamp of its ingredient labels in the wake of two deaths from allergic reactions to food bought at the chain.
“Pret has big plans for the next few years – integrating EAT, developing Veggie Pret, delivering our digital transformation, and leading the way in supporting customers with allergies,” said Christou.
Schlee said: “There is never an easy time to stop being chief executive of a wonderful company, but with the completion of our Eat deal tomorrow, and the roll out of the Pret Allergy Plan, now is a good time for a new chief executive to take Pret on the next stage of its journey.”
He added: “I’m really pleased Pano is taking over. He knows our shops through and through and will keep Pret true to the values that have underpinned its success.”
Earlier this year Pret a Manger confirmed it was in discussions to snap up rival food group Eat in a bid to create a swathe of vegan and vegetarian-friendly food outlets.
Pret is set to buy most of Eat’s 94 outlets or the entire business in an attempt to build up its role in the healthy-eating market.
Schlee confirmed today that the deal is set to be completed tomorrow.
Read more: Pret a Manger has swallowed up Eat, but how will it taste?
Olivier Goudet, Pret a Manger chairman, added: “Since 2003, Clive has become the beating heart of Pret, transforming it into a much-loved, leading international brand.
“While I am sad to see Clive leave as chief executive, I am thrilled he has agreed to become a non-executive board director, where he will continue to play a key role in stewarding Pret’s people, culture and passion, which are all so integral to its success.”