Pret A Manger is sharing joy across the UK with a celebration of the people and moments that defined 2024. Pret’s first ever Christmas window displays will bring stories of national joy to life at Carnaby Street (London), New Street (Birmingham) and Oxford Street (Manchester).
Inspired by consumer research into 2024’s Top 10 most joyful moments (see below) as voted by the British public, Pret’s windows pay tribute to three of the nation’s most unforgettable highlights this year.
Research reveals that almost half (45%) believe they’ll look back on this year fondly as a time which brought them happiness – with 22% describing 2024 as their most joyful one to date.
From the iconic Jude Bellingham overhead goal in the Euros, to Sir David Attenborough’s 70 years of dedication to wildlife, and Keely Hodgkinson’s inspiring Gold in Paris, these joyous scenes have been transformed with a festive twist. Crafted from Pret’s signature seasonal menu by renowned Prop Maker and Artist, Andy Billett, each display is a playful, heart-warming celebration of 2024’s highlights – from Mince Pies to Melvin the Snowman Gingerbread, these beloved menu items have become art, as a quarter (25%) of people say they associate joy with their favourite foods.
This has been a key year for joyful moments, as, on average, those polled have experienced 44 moments of joy so far this year – around four a month – and 30% expect to see an increase next year.
But Pret isn’t just celebrating national moments of joy – it’s also highlighting local heroes who have spread the joy in their local communities, too. At Pret shops on North Bridge, Edinburgh, and Paradise Street, Liverpool, festive window displays coming soon honour two inspiring individuals who have made a meaningful impact on their communities through charities supported by The Pret Foundation.
In Liverpool, Elizabeth Fearon from Toxteth Women’s Centre has been bringing comfort and support to families in need for over seven years, delivering Pret’s food donations and helping families through challenging times. With her caring and selfless nature, Elizabeth embodies the spirit of giving, whether that be by teaching English, assisting with rehoming, or being a friend to all.
Meanwhile, Shikha Ahuja from the Milan Senior Welfare Organisation brings joy to the elderly South Asian community in Edinburgh. With her Bollywood-inspired events, cooking clubs and digital literacy sessions, Shikha’s dedication lights up lives and strengthens connections, helping to combat loneliness and ensure older individuals within the community feel included.
But Pret’s festive celebrations aren’t just about decoration – they’re part of a much larger mission to give back to communities. At all five of Pret’s Christmas window displays, passersby and customers can scan QR codes in the windows to learn more about the local charities Pret works with. They can also donate to The Pret Foundation, which exists to make a difference to those affected by hunger, poverty, and homelessness. Last year, The Pret Foundation donated over 5 million food items to those in need and will continue to support communities across the UK, providing training and employment through its Rising Stars programme.
Katherine Bagshawe, UK Food & Coffee Director, said: “At Pret, we believe that Christmas is about bringing people together, celebrating, and sharing joy. That’s why we’re thrilled to share stories of remarkable individuals who make a real difference in both their communities and the nation, alongside some of the most incredible moments that helped define 2024.”
“We may be the home of the Christmas sandwich, but we want to do more than serve great food and coffee – we’re here to share joy and help those who need it most, which is fitting as 25% of the nation associate joy with their favourite foods. Thanks to The Pret Foundation, we’re able to provide food, resources, and support to those affected by hunger and homelessness, not just at Christmas but year-round.”
Pret invites everyone to visit its Carnaby Street (London), New Street (Birmingham), Oxford Street (Manchester), North Bridge (Edinburgh), and soon in Paradise Street (Liverpool) shops to see these joyous displays and join in the spirit of giving. Customers can share their own memories of joy from 2024 on social media using #ShareTheJoy, and selected stories will be featured on Pret’s channels throughout the festive season.
TOP 10 – 2024 MOMENTS OF JOY
- England men’s football team reaching the final of Euro 2024
- David Attenborough celebrates 70 years of service as a conservationist and broadcaster
- Jude Bellingham’s overhead goal for England against Slovakia at Euro 2024
- The announcement of the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special
- Keely Hodgkinson’s 800 meters gold at the Olympics for Team GB
- 16-year-old Luke Littler reaching the final of the 2024 PDC World Darts Championship
- Andy Murray’s emotional retirement match at Wimbledon
- Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour
- Announcement of Oasis reforming
- The Coronation Street 65th anniversary special
