Fashion
While UK sandwich chain Pret A Manger has not broken out details of its Hong Kong business, it had a 39 per cent jump in global pre-tax profits to a record £75.5 million (US$99.6 million) overall for its latest year.
Total sales were £776 million as it capitalised on consumer eating trends, including a demand for dairy-free food. It says coconut is its most popular new ingredient, with coconut porridge selling particularly well.
Research firm Kantar Worldpanel reports that flatbread, avocado, halloumi and spinach were among the fastest-selling foods last year.
Pret A Manger says hot breakfast pots have been popular as well as its refreshed soup range, all gluten- and dairy-free and less than 250 calories.
Meanwhile, there have been reports the chain is preparing for a partial listing on the New York Stock Exchange. Owner Bridgepoint is believed to want to continue to hold a stake in the company rather than cashing out completely. The European private equity firm bought a majority stake in the business for £500 million in 2008.
More recently, Filipino fast-food restaurant owner Jollibee expressed an interest in buying Pret A Manger.
The chain added 31 stores in the UK during the 12 months, including a vegetarian-only shop in London, taking the national total to 329. It has a further 110 branches overseas.
