Would You Pay Nearly £13 for Pret’s New Premium Salad? Here’s What Thousands Told Us
In recent weeks, Pret A Manger, the popular UK-based fast-casual food chain, launched a new range of premium salads priced at up to £12.95. Dubbed "Super Plates," these offerings are said to be over 60% larger than Pret’s typical salad options and feature what the company describes as "premium ingredients." However, the price tag has sparked debate among consumers, prompting Sky News’ Money blog to poll thousands of readers on whether they would pay nearly £13 for one of Pret’s new salads.
What Are Pret’s Super Plates?
Pret’s latest offering aims to cater to customers seeking larger portion sizes and more upscale ingredients during lunchtime. The company claims that the new salads require more preparation time than their usual menu items, which is reflected in the higher price point.
Despite the rationale behind the cost, the introduction of these salads led to vocal criticism across social media platforms. Some consumers expressed skepticism about the value, especially given rising living costs and inflationary pressures on household budgets.
Public Opinion: Over 90% Say No
Sky News conducted a poll across multiple platforms to gauge public reaction to Pret’s pricing move. The survey gathered thousands of responses from LinkedIn (3,045 votes), Twitter (5,453 votes), YouTube (2,800 votes), and WhatsApp (2,960 votes).
The outcome was decidedly clear: more than 90% of respondents indicated they would not spend almost £13 on one of Pret’s new salads for lunch.
In response to feedback, Pret stated: “We have ensured our new Super Plates are priced competitively within the market for this type of lunchtime offer.” The company stands by the price as fair given the increased size and quality of ingredients.
The Bigger Picture: Money Matters and Consumer Choices
The poll results come amid wider concerns about soaring living costs in the UK. Recent economic data released on July 11, 2025, shows the UK economy contracted by 0.1% in May, disappointing analysts and government officials alike. Consumer spending remains cautious as many households balance escalating energy bills and inflationary pressures.
Industry experts note that food and dining costs are increasingly scrutinized by consumers who are looking for value without compromising quality. The fact that the majority of those surveyed reject paying a premium price for a salad from a well-known chain reflects the broader sentiment of tightening purse strings.
What’s Next for Pret and Similar Chains?
With consumer wallets under pressure, companies like Pret face difficult questions about how best to innovate and price their products. Offering premium lines may appeal to a niche market, but mass consumer acceptance appears limited at the current price points.
As the cost of living crisis persists and the government navigates economic challenges—including energy pricing reforms and potential tax changes—retailers and eateries will need to carefully calibrate offerings to meet evolving customer expectations.
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This article is based on data and insights from Sky News’ July 11, 2025 Money blog. It reflects public opinion and broader economic contexts influencing consumer behavior in the UK.