Pret A Manger switches to self-service coffee machines

To tackle the difficulties caused by the pandemic and the lack of office work, Pret A Manger looks to branch into automated self-service machines.

Pret A Manger is planning to launch automated self-service coffee machines as it faces severe staff shortages and dwindling commuter footfall.

The coffee giant is understood to have trademarked “Pret Express” with the UK’s Intellectual Property Office under “coffee vending machines and dispensing machines”, reports the The Financial Times.

The categories they’re approved under include classes relating to “coffee vending and dispensing machines”, “coffee-based beverages”, “non-alcoholic drinks” and “self-service coffee bars”.

The chain has also been one of the hardest hit by the pandemic and subsequent work-from-home revolution, severely impacting its returning footfall when stores were allowed to reopen.