"Le Pain Quotidien is an all day artisan bakery and restaurant brand that strongly believes in making ethical sourcing choices, from field to plate, for the sake of our customers, for maintaining a healthier lifestyle and for the sustainability of the planet," said Joost Vastenavondt, Chief Growth Officer. "These beliefs also apply to our animal welfare choices. We are constantly looking for opportunities to ensure that we and our suppliers adhere to the highest standards in this area."

The global bakery chain has stores in Hong Kong, Brazil, Germany, Turkey, the UAE and the United States.

Other major companies to make similar commitments include Nestlé, Kraft-Heinz, Unilever, Aldi Sud, Kellogg Company and General Mills.

Globally, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Austria have already banned caging hens. Bans are on the way in Germany, Belgium, Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Seven US states have phased out caged-egg production, and the EU has resolved to end the use of cages in farming by 2027.