Pret has faced a fresh wave of protests over its decision to delay a commitment to stop sourcing fast-growing chicken breeds.
Led by naturalist and broadcaster Chris Packham in London, and organised by campaign groups Anima and Project Slingshot, Packham said he would not return to the retailer until it delivers on a welfare pledge first made in 2018.
The demonstration comes in the wake of Pret’s alleged failure to stick to its previous commitment to phase out fast-growing “Frankenchicken” breeds by 2026, instead extending the deadline until 2032.
The company has said it remains committed to making the change and is among a small number of businesses still working towards the target.
Speaking at the protest, Packham said: “I am absolutely furious at Pret for breaking their promise to chickens.”
He added: “I’m taking a break from Pret, and I won’t be setting foot in their cafes until they produce a real, credible plan to stop selling frankenchickens, just like they promised to do eight years ago.”
The campaign groups say they have gathered more than 40,000 signatures as part of a wider campaign calling on Pret to honour its original commitment. Protesters also displayed a four-metre animatronic “Frankenwrap”, which has previously been used in demonstrations outside Pret stores.
Pret has previously defended its position, saying it remains committed to improving chicken welfare despite revising its timeline.
“We are disappointed that this campaign group has chosen to target one of the few businesses that remains signed up to the Better Chicken Commitment. We already meet 5 out of the 6 of those standards and have set a clear roadmap for the remaining one,” said a Pret spokesperson.
“It is unclear to us why activists are spending such significant funds targeting a business trying to do the right thing rather than focusing on those who have abandoned higher welfare reform entirely.
“While we respect the right to peaceful protest and the important issues this campaign seeks to raise, our priority is the wellbeing of our team members and customers. We have plans in place to support them and hope any demonstrations are conducted safely and with respect for the people who work in and visit our shops every day.”
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