Pret A Manger will open its first Canadian airport location at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), marking the start of a broader expansion into major airports across the country.

A&W Food Services of Canada Inc., which holds the exclusive Canadian rights to develop and operate the British fresh-food and organic coffee chain, announced that the first airport location is expected to open in YVR’s international terminal this summer. Additional airport openings are planned through the second half of 2026.

In total, four new Pret locations are slated to open at Canadian airports this year, bringing the brand’s freshly made food, organic coffee and grab-and-go offerings to travellers across the country.

The airport expansion follows the opening of Pret’s second Canadian location in Toronto’s financial district in January and reflects the company’s strategy to grow the brand in transit and urban markets nationwide.

Pret’s Canadian operations are led by Paul Hughes, managing director, a restaurant industry veteran who previously held senior leadership roles with Freshii and is overseeing the brand’s growth strategy in Canada.

“Airports are a natural fit for Pret,” said Hughes. “Travellers today are looking for food that is fresh, high quality, and fast — whether they’re grabbing a coffee before an early flight or looking for a healthier meal option while in transit. Pret delivers that experience in a way that’s convenient, consistent, and genuinely enjoyable.”

Ben Ma, Vancouver Airport Authority’s director of retail passenger experience, said the addition of Pret aligns with YVR’s efforts to enhance food and beverage options for passengers.

“At YVR, we’re continually looking for opportunities to elevate our food and beverage offering and enhance the passenger experience. The arrival of Pret A Manger adds another globally recognized brand to our airport and is part of our broader strategy to provide travellers with more convenient and healthy choices throughout their journey,” he said.

“Canada represents an important growth opportunity for Pret,” Hughes added. “We’re seeing strong consumer demand for fresh, high-quality food served quickly and conveniently. We’re excited not only about our airport growth, but also about working with our franchise partners to expand Pret into more cities and transit locations across Canada in the years ahead.”

Pictured: Pret A Manger location on Adelaide Street in downtown Toronto.

Photo: CNW Group/A&W

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