Bon appétit! Pret A Manger's sarnies prove popular with Parisians

Traditional British sandwiches are proving an unlikely hit in Paris, with UK chain Pret A Manger receiving a leading French shopping award.

The company, which opened its first shop in Paris just nine months ago, was awarded the Enseigne d'Or for the efficiency of its operations at a ceremony attended by thousands of French retailers.

There are currently three Pret A Manger branches in Paris, all with higher average sales than in London. A fourth is due to open.

The brand is known for its friendly staff and ethical practice, with unsold food offered to charities at the end of each day.

Clive Schlee, the chain's chief executive, said: “We were initially worried about how we might be received, but this award is the realisation of what our Parisian customers have already been telling us. They love the quality of our food and the speed of service.”