Pret adds filling to Spinningfields lunchtime trade

The frontline of Manchester's sandwich wars continues to shift with Pret a Manger taking a 1,850 sq ft unit in Allied London's Spinningfields.

The move to a unit next to 4 Hardman Square follows the recent opening of a new outlet in One Piccadilly Gardens and takes Pret to four shops in the city centre.

Up-and-coming fancy sandwich chain Philpotts has two shops in the city centre and plans for more, starting with a large unit at Bruntwood's City Tower. Philpotts is also eyeing opportunities in Spinningfields. London-based Eat has three city centre units, including Spinningfields, and is keen to expand.

Oxford Street and the city end of the so-called university corridor on Oxford Road is said to be the next hunting ground as the office market, and its lunchtime trade, spreads out from the traditional core around King Street, Spring Gardens and Mosley Street.

"We are keen to further establish our position as the most popular sandwich retailer within Manchester city centre," said Stephen Rought-Whitta of Pret-a-Manger. "The two acquisitions will significantly increase our presence within the core business areas of Manchester and raise Prêt's profile in key districts of the city centre."

Jonathan Netley, partner at Tushingham Moore, who advised Pret on both recent deals, commented: "The growth of the premium sandwich market in Manchester has risen quite significantly over the past year. With new and influential developments such as Spinningfields, there will be a considerable influx of business workers into the area widening the scope for more lunchtime retailers."

Markham Vaughan Gillingham and GVA Grimley advised Allied London at Spinningfields. Tushingham Moore is retained by Pret.