Pret calls for British job applicants

PRET A Manger yesterday announced the creation of 550 jobs, but could not say how many of them would go to British youngsters.

The sandwich chain, which has 286 shops mainly in the UK, has attracted criticism in the past for being dominated by overseas workers.

And chief executive Clive Schlee said there would be more foreigners joining up in London, as staff reflected the population of outlets’ local areas.

But the firm insists it will speak to the careers departments of every school in the country to encourage British youngsters to join as it opens 24 new branches.

The private equity-owned chain opened in London in 1986 and saw its profits rise 14 per cent to £52.4million last year as it opened 24 new stores. Pret employs almost 5,000 people in the UK and is known for giving its leftover food to the homeless. The company said it gave away 2.4million sandwiches and salads in 2011.

But Pret attracted scorn last November from employment minister Chris Grayling after one British branch appeared to be staffed entirely by foreigners.

Mr Grayling wanted Britishborn workers to be given more of a chance by the company.

Mr Schlee said: ‘In the regions I think the majority ( of new recruits) will pretty much be British people but London is a more multi- cultural city and there will be more foreigners.’