Pret a Manger, the United Kingdom-based sandwich and coffee chain, has significantly scaled back its ambitious expansion plans in Southern California, closing all but one of its newly established locations. The company had previously announced a goal to open 40 stores across the region.
Retreat from the Golden State
Of the initial four locations that opened in 2024, only the Pret a Manger outlet inside the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX remains operational. The Westwood location near UCLA and the shop at Westfield Century City mall were among the first to close in early April. A third location in Studio City has also ceased operations, with its Yelp page having removed reviews over a year prior.
Pret a Manger, known for its grab-and-go baked goods, salads, and soups, found significant success in its native Britain and in New York City, where it operates over 40 locations. The brand partnered with Dallas Holdings, an investment firm, to propel its expansion, aiming to “double the size” of the business within five years and leverage franchise partnerships.
Shane Thakrar, president and CEO of Dallas Holdings, had expressed optimism about the Southern California market, stating in a press release that they were “extremely excited about bringing the Pret brand to the Southern California market, whilst also adding to Pret’s own strong New York network.” He added that California was considered a “great new market for Pret, with many strong initial locations across Los Angeles and Orange County planned for our launch.”
However, the remaining LAX store is reportedly managed by concessions operator ASUR Airports, not Dallas Holdings. As of summer 2026, the grand expansion plans appear to have stalled, with no official reason provided by Pret a Manger or Dallas Holdings for the rapid closures. The company has over 400 locations globally.