Barista - Newbury

About the Role

This is a full-time Barista position based in Newbury, with a 35-hour working week. The store is located at 93 Northbrook Street, Newbury RG14 1AA, GBR. Pret is a growing business known for freshly made food, organic coffee, and a strong presence across more than 750 shops in over 20 countries. The role sits within a fast-moving shop environment that offers real scope to build skills, confidence, and a long-term career.

What You’ll Do

As a Barista, you’ll prepare and serve Pret’s coffee drinks with care, including hot and iced barista-made beverages. You’ll be responsible for delivering drinks that meet quality standards while creating a warm customer experience. The company also provides several weeks of training before you begin serving customers independently, so you can develop the pace and confidence needed for the role.

Who You Are

Pret is looking for someone who works well as part of a team, enjoys serving people, and has a genuine interest in coffee. You should bring kindness, honesty, and a generous attitude to work, along with a real commitment to excellent service. The role suits someone who is ready to learn, grow, and contribute energy and care to every shift.

Growth and Culture

Pret places a strong emphasis on development and internal growth. Many managers and support centre employees, including the CEO, began their careers on the shop floor. The company promotes inclusion, personal growth, and a sense of belonging, alongside a busy working style that helps team members build broad skills quickly.

Pay and Benefits

• Base hourly pay is £14.40, which includes the mystery shopper bonus.
• Once training is complete, shifts that start between 3am and 5am receive an additional £5 per hour.
• 28 days of annual leave is provided, calculated pro rata for part-time work.
• Pension support is available.
• A healthcare cash plan is included.
• Free food and drinks are provided during working hours.
• Club Pret membership gives 50% off food and up to five free barista-made drinks each day when off shift.
• Loyalty recognition is awarded after 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of service.
• Regular rewards and recognition are offered for strong standards.
• Discounts are available across shopping, travel, fitness, dining, technology, and more.
• Flexible working hours are part of the package.
• Free comfortable shoes are provided for shifts.

Learning and Additional Opportunities

The company offers ongoing learning opportunities, including fully funded professional qualifications such as Level 3 apprenticeships, along with internal transfer routes for those wanting to explore different paths. The role also gives exposure to a fast-paced, varied environment and the chance to contribute to wider community impact through The Pret Foundation, including work related to homelessness, food waste reduction, and positive community change.

Values and Interview Process

Pret’s values are centered on happy teams and happy customers, high standards every day, continuous progress, and doing the right thing. The hiring process begins with a phone screening followed by a 60-minute interview in the shop with the General Manager and team. The company welcomes applicants from underrepresented groups and encourages candidates to request any support or adjustments needed during recruitment. Applicants are also asked not to use AI to complete the application.

Application Note

Everyone is welcome at Pret, and the company aims to create an environment where people feel valued and included. Candidates should apply in a genuine, personal way rather than relying on automated responses.