Pret A Manger has poached Kraft Heinz boss Ross Warnes to be its new UK and Ireland president to lead the company’s biggest region through its next phase of growth.

Pret A Manger Ross Warnes

Source: Pret A Manger

Pret A Manger has appointed Ross Warnes as its new UK and Ireland president

Warnes, who joins the sandwich chain in January, will be responsible for growing Pret’s market share and transactions across its 500+ UK and Ireland store estate.

He joins from Kraft Heinz, where he has spent the last decade holding various roles, including most recently area vice president of the group’s US business. Warnes has also worked at Unilever and Nestlé.

Warnes’ appointment comes as the business is doubling down on its commitment to food and coffee innovation following the launch of its premium high protein and nutrient rich salads, which the company said was already driving incremental customer visits. 

Pret A Manger chief executive Pano Christou said: “I’m excited to welcome Ross to the Pret team, overseeing UK and Ireland. 

“Ross has great experience in growing food brands and leading high-performing teams. His leadership will be instrumental as we focus on growing our UK market share, driving transactions and delivering more value to our customers.”

Warnes added: “I grew up with Pret and have always cherished its freshly made food, organic coffee and friendly service. It’s been amazing to see it evolve over the years and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of its exciting future. I’m looking forward to joining the team and taking the Pret brand to new places across the UK and Ireland.” 

Topics