Pret slashes 2,800 jobs

Pret a Manger has cut 2,800 jobs after completing a restructuring of its UK operations in the wake of a severe downturn in sales despite reopening many stores. The cuts come after the sandwich and coffee chain said last month it was planning a shake-up that would result in 30 shops closing. Although there had been "clear signs of recovery" in footfall since lockdown was eased, sales were still down about 60pc compared with the same time last year. Chief executive Pano Christou said he was "gutte