Pret a Manger has announced a price-cutting initiative to attract more lunchtime customers, intensifying competition among High Street chains and supermarkets amid the cost-of-living crisis. From January 10, the sandwich franchise will offer a full-size baguette with crisps or popcorn for £5, alongside its Made Simple range of eight freshly made sandwiches priced at £2.99. Interim UK managing director Guy Meakin said the move aims to 'give customers more choice and value for money' without compromising on quality.
However, Pret's new deal remains more expensive than rivals. Sainsbury's offers a meal deal with a main, snack and drink for £3.50, while Tesco Club Card holders can get a similar deal for £3.40. Boots' meal deal costs £3.99 (£3.60 for loyalty card members), though London prices rise to £4.99 (£4.50 with card). Co-Op charges £4 for a main, snack and drink, or £3.50 with a loyalty card.
Not all chains are lowering prices. Greggs recently increased the price of its sausage roll to £1.20, with some London branches charging up to £1.45. Chief executive Roisin Currie attributed the rise to high energy costs and food inflation, but insisted the chain still offers 'very good value.' Despite the hikes, Greggs reported an 18.2% sales increase in the final quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021.
Pret's £5 baguette-and-snack deal excludes a drink, making it less comprehensive than supermarket meal deals. By contrast, Greggs sells a tuna crunch baguette for just £2.75. The price war reflects the struggle of food outlets to balance affordability with rising costs as consumers seek budget-friendly options during the economic downturn.
