Pret A Manger axes self service coffee machines and refocuses on high street stores

Pret A Manger is withdrawing all 110 of its self-service coffee machines from locations across the United Kingdom, shifting its strategic focus towards expanding its high street store presence. The company will begin removing its Pret Express dispensing machines from petrol stations and convenience stores over the coming weeks, with a full withdrawal expected by the end of February. LOr branded machines will serve as replacements in these locations.

Introduced just four years ago, the Pret Express machines offered coffee, tea, and hot chocolate in spaces where full-scale Pret shops were not feasible. This move, originally seen as an attempt to challenge Costa, which maintains more than 14200 self-service coffee units in the UK, is now being reversed as Pret adapts its business strategy to changing economic conditions and consumer behaviour.

The decision follows a year of significant losses for Pret, with the company reporting a pre-tax deficit of £525 million. The latest financial statement included a substantial write-down of £553 million in goodwill, reflecting a reassessment of long term prospects amid rising inflation and operational costs.

In response to growing criticism regarding high prices, Pret has responded with investment in new meal deals and a renewed focus on offering better value. The chain, which recently opened its 500th UK branch, has also modified its Club Pret subscription programme. The new structure provides customers with fifty percent off five drinks per day for £5 per month, altering the previous model that offered five daily barista-made drinks and a 20 percent discount on food for £30 per month.

The strategic withdrawal of self-service machines underscores the companys shift away from automated retail solutions toward strengthening its brand through physical presence and customer experience on the high street. Chief Executive Pano Christou and the management team have highlighted the need to deliver greater value and adapt to heightened price sensitivity among Pret’s customers.

Pret representatives confirmed the company is working closely with its partner JDE Peets to ensure a seamless transition for sites affected by the removal of the machines. Management emphasised that the redirection of investment will fuel further store openings throughout the United Kingdom as the company looks to recover and reposition in a competitive marketplace.