Pret A Manger has launched a major revamp of its salad offering, introducing a new range of larger, “premium” salads in a direct response to soaring customer demand for healthier, more substantial lunch options. This strategic shift highlights a significant trend in the UK’s competitive food-to-go market, where consumers are increasingly seeking out nutrient-rich meals.
Introducing ‘Super Plates’: A New Era for Pret Salads
The new menu category, named “Super Plates,” represents a significant evolution from Pret’s traditional grab-and-go salads. According to reports from The Caterer, the move is backed by data showing Pret’s salad sales have been increasing at three times the rate of its iconic sandwich category.
- Bigger and Bolder: The new salads are nearly 60% larger than previous offerings, weighing around 450g and designed to be a more filling meal.
- Nutrient and Protein-Packed: Each plate is designed to provide up to three of your five-a-day. Options like the Chipotle Chicken and Miso Salmon contain between 36g and 49g of protein.
- Premium Ingredients: The range features nine new unique ingredients, such as Japanese-style togarashi seed topping, chargrilled chickpeas, and Mexican-inspired black bean mole, indicating a move towards more complex and global flavours.
- Menu Highlights: The new lineup includes a Miso Salmon Super Plate, a Chipotle Chicken Super Plate, and a vegan Butternut Mezze Super Plate, with prices starting from £9.95.
A Strategic Response to Market Trends
Pret’s menu overhaul is a clear reaction to shifts in consumer behaviour and the competitive landscape:
- Rising Demand for Healthy Options: As noted by Pret’s Head of Food, the launch caters to a “rise in popularity amongst Brits for larger, more nutrient dense salads.” This aligns with broader UK food trends for 2025 showing a greater focus on health-conscious eating.
- Competing with Specialists: The move positions Pret to compete more directly with specialist salad bar chains like Atis and The Salad Project, which have gained popularity by offering substantial, customisable salads.
- The “Treat” Lunch: The premium ingredients and higher price point reflect a trend of hybrid workers “treating” themselves to a more filling and indulgent lunch on the days they are in the office.
- Evolving the Brand: This launch, alongside trials of new family-friendly, dine-in store formats, shows Pret is actively evolving beyond its traditional commuter-focused model.
Financing Menu Innovation and Business Adaptation
For businesses in the highly competitive food and beverage sector, staying relevant requires continuous innovation, whether in menu development, store format, or service model. This often requires significant investment. Information on government support and finance options can be a useful starting point. Working with a specialist finance broker provides access to a wide network of lenders and tailored solutions. With connections to over 95 lenders, brokers can help you navigate the market effectively.
Key finance solutions for innovating food businesses include:
- Working Capital Loans: To fund the research, development, and marketing launch of a new menu range.
- Asset Finance: For investing in new kitchen equipment, display units, or technology needed to support a new product line.
- Business Loans (Unsecured and Secured): For larger projects like a full store refurbishment, brand refresh, or expansion into new formats.
- Stock Finance: To help manage the cost of purchasing new, premium ingredients and managing inventory for a revamped menu.
Partnering with a finance broker simplifies finding and applying for the right funding. They understand the fast-paced nature of the hospitality and retail sectors and can guide businesses to the most suitable financial products. For further impartial advice, explore resources from the British Business Bank and guides like the ICAEW Business Finance Guide.
Conclusion
Pret A Manger’s strategic pivot towards substantial, premium salads is a clear indicator of the direction of the UK’s food-to-go market. As consumers become more health-conscious and demand more from their lunch break, businesses that can innovate and offer high-quality, nutrient-rich options are best placed to succeed. This move demonstrates a data-led response to changing tastes and a commitment to evolving a brand to meet the demands of a new era.
Is your food or retail business looking to innovate its offering to meet new consumer demands? Explore tailored finance solutions today and connect with our network of over 95 lenders to find the perfect fit for your needs.