Pràt à Manger denies takeover rumours

Pràt à Manger, the sandwich-bar chain, denied reports last week that it may bought by Whitbread.

"We are not near to a flotation and are definitely not for sale," said Charlotte Fuller, marketing director.

Speculation mounted as the group confirmed its plan to appoint a managing director. This, said Fuller, would free up co-owner Sinclair Beecham to concentrate on other aspects of the company, such as seeking new properties.

Whitbread declined tocomment.