Pano Christou, chief executive of Pret, says the company is beginning to feel the impact of inflation linked to the war in the Middle East, particularly through fuel price volatility. While prices are not set to rise immediately, he warns that continued disruption could force increases. Shipping delays into the Middle East have lengthened, though the company’s broader growth ambitions in the region remain on track.

The company’s revised five pound per month drinks subscription has grown by nearly 25 percent over the past year after being reshaped from its original coronavirus-era format. Meanwhile, a new large salad range has exceeded expectations, selling 40 percent more than forecast, with strong demand in the evenings as more customers shift away from bread-based options.

Christou also reflects on his career path, having started as an assistant manager before rising to chief executive. He says he never aimed specifically for the top job, arguing that career progression comes from focusing on doing each role well rather than targeting a title.