Mukesh Ambani ventures into F&B retail, brings London-based sandwich outlet Pret A Manger to India

With this long-term master franchise partnership, RBL will open the food chain across the country starting with major cities and travel hubs, the company statement said.

As India’s largest luxury to premium retailer, RBL for 14 years has nurtured and grown global brands in the country.

With its rich cache of insights on customers’ evolving spending habits and an ambitious expansion plan, RBL’s first foray into the food industry will bring the Pret dining experience to cater to millions of Indian paletes.

The first outlet will open in Mumbai before March 2023, Reuters reported.

In a joint statement, MD at Reliance Brands Ltd. Darshan Mehta said the partnership was "rooted in the strong growth potential" of the Pret brand, based on its recognition for its organic coffee and premium sandwiches.

Pret A Manger elucidating "ready to eat" in Francaise, had set up its first brick and mortar outlet in London in 1986.

It now has a global presence of 550 outlets, including in various European nations and the U.S.

The brand is owned by Founder Sinclair Beecham and an investment group JAB.

In India, the UK food and beverages chain would face competition from Starbucks, running as a joint venture in India with Tata's, and from Costa Coffee, owned by Coca-Cola, Reuters reported.