Pret a Manger is in talks to acquire the rival Eat sandwich chain with a view to converting most of its 90-odd stores to the Veggie Pret brand.
Although neither side would comment, Pret is understood to be in advanced negotiations over a deal with the company and its private equity backer Horizon Capital, formerly known as Lyceum Capital.
Terms of the deal have not been disclosed, although it is understood that Pret plans to convert most, if not all, of the Eat stores to its fledgling Veggie Pret concept, which sells vegetarian and vegan sandwiches and salads.
