Pret to open site run by formerly homeless employees

Pret's CEO has announced plans to open a site run exclusively by its employees that used to be homeless.

The sandwich chain has run its Rising Stars programme for the last 10 years and given jobs to more than 400 formerly homeless people.

"Our graduated Rising Stars are so proud of what they've achieved. They want to show what they're capable of and become mentors to those joining our unique programme," wrote chief executive Clive Schlee in a blog post.

"They feel that a Rising Stars shop would be the perfect place to do this. They also hope it would encourage other companies to employ more people from disadvantaged backgrounds."

Pret A Manger opened its first site in London's Hampstead in 1984.

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