Junior Chamber International (JCI) UK are pleased to award Pret a Manger with a new award which celebrates employers committed to improving the lives of both its young workforce and also young people in our communities.   Pret a Manger is widely known for its avid supporters, friendly and welcoming service and commitment to freshly-made, high quality products. However, what isn’t widely appreciated is Pret’s commitment to the growth and development of young talent and commitment to improving the lives of young people across the UK. JCI UK believes that all businesses should act with purpose, and there is no reason why that can’t run in unison with traditional business requirements. The commit JCI UK have chosen to support are those organisations that commit to building the leaders of tomorrow, today. Pret does this through providing significant internal leadership development programmes (supported by the ‘Shooting Stars’ initiative which recognises team members who go above and beyond), their focus on creating positive customer interactions rather than focussing on rigid quality and customer services metrics and also, the strong sense of purpose embedded in the groups strategy through the Pret Foundation; especially its commitment to alleviate poverty in the UK by combatting homelessness Clive Schlee, Pret’s CEO accepted the award presented by JCI UK National President, Michael Steel and stated that “it’s great to see Pret a Manger being recognised for all the great work we do with our young stars and beyond” and went on to say “we’d like to thank JCI UK for this award an encourage others to further commit to the development of tomorrow’s leaders today. Michael Steel, National President for JCI UK said, “we feel businesses that commit to building a brighter future by developing young talent are deserving of recognition and fully support Pret a Manger with achieving this aim”.   JCI UK is a membership organisation for young professionals and young entrepreneurs with chambers across the UK. They provide development opportunities that allows their members to learn new skills, grow their networks, give back to the community and experience leadership. Any questions relating to the Investing in Young People award should be sent to Philip Cockayne, JCI UK Commercial Director via phil.cockayne@jciuk.org.uk.