Julian Metcalfe (Itsu and Pret A Manger)
Julian Metcalfe started Pret A Manger and later Itsu, also a fast-food chain. He talks to Evan about the lessons he鈥檚 learned.
An early passion for the high street meant Julian Metcalfe was determined to get into retail from the get-go. He and his partner Sinclair Beecham founded Pret A Manger when he was just 26. In 2008 Pret was sold to a private equity firm, and Julian no longer had a say in the company鈥檚 future. Now Julian is in charge of Itsu, an Asian-inspired fast-food chain. The food entrepreneur talks to Evan Davis about how he is determined not to lose his decision-making role this time around.
Production team:
Producer: Eleanor Harrison-Dengate, Georgiana Tudor
Editor: Matt Willis
Sound: John Scott
Production co-ordinator: Katie Morrison
(Photo Credit: Itsu)
On radio
Broadcasts
- Sat 26 Jul 2025 19:00麻豆社 Radio 4
- Sun 27 Jul 2025 12:15麻豆社 Radio 4
- Next Wednesday 20:45麻豆社 Radio 4
Podcast
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The Bottom Line
The definitive business podcast from the 麻豆社. Hosted by Evan Davis.
