Pret A Manger appoints UK&I president

Pret A Manger has appointed Ross Warnes as UK and Ireland president as it looks to continue its growth plans. Warnes will take up the position in January and joins from Kraft Heinz, where he held several senior roles, including area vice president overseeing their biggest business unit in the US and VP of sales for Northern Europe and UK and Ireland sales director. 

Pret said he has a “wealth” of experience driving growth for food and beverage brands, with experience at Unilever and Nestle’s UK businesses, prior to his time at Kraft Heinz.

In his new role, Warnes will oversee Pret’s UK and Ireland estate of more than 500 sites, spearheading efforts to grow its market share and increase transactions.

Pano Christou, CEO of Pret A Manger, said: “I’m excited to welcome Ross to the Pret team overseeing UK and Ireland. Ross has great experience in growing food brands and leading high-performing teams. 

“His leadership will be instrumental as we focus on growing our UK market share, driving transactions and delivering more value to our customers.”

Warnes added: “I grew up with Pret and have always cherished its freshly made food, organic coffee and friendly service. It’s been amazing to see it evolve over the years and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of its exciting future. 

“I’m looking forward to joining the team and taking the Pret brand to new places across the UK and Ireland.”