Panera Bread is rolling out ‘Panera RISE,’ a strategic plan aimed at strengthening the brand and growing systemwide sales to more than $7 billion by 2028. The brand aims to improve the food quality and guest experience and offer better value, along with expanding the cafe network across the nation.
Panera Bread Charts New Course for 2028 With Growth Plan
Panera Bread, the American bakery-cafe chain, is unveiling its new growth plan, ‘Panera RISE,’ to accelerate expansion and strengthen its presence nationwide.
The plan will focus on improving food quality, offering greater value, elevating the guest experience, and expanding Panera’s café network across the country.
Panera Bread CEO Paul Carbone said, “Over the past year, we have made considerable progress in strengthening our foundation to better serve our guests. Panera RISE is a momentum driver, grounded in the areas of differentiation that have made Panera an iconic brand for nearly 40 years.”
Opened in 1987, the brand began its journey with a sourdough starter and the core belief that good food is meant to be shared. Over the years, Panera has grown into a fast-casual favorite, known for fresh, innovative menu items like soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods. Currently, the brand operates 2,239 bakery-cafes across the U.S. and Canada.
Carbone also added, “As we transform our business, we are investing in four strategic pillars that put the guest at the very center of everything we do.”
Four-Pillar Strategy to Lead the Transformation
“Panera RISE” represents four key pillars: refreshing the menu, igniting value, serving guests with excellence, and expanding the network. Together, these pillars outline the brand’s strategic path forward.
- Refreshing the Menu: Elevate ingredients and introduce bolder, more flavorful bakery and beverage options.
- Igniting Value: Deliver high-quality food at prices that are accessible and affordable.
- Serving Guests with Excellence: Creating warm, personalized experiences for every visitor.
- Expanding the Network: Open new locations, refresh existing cafés, and ensure consistent service and quality.
Carbone concluded, “I’m incredibly confident that Panera RISE is the roadmap that will drive our long-term growth and value creation, and that together with our team members and our franchisees, we will reclaim our position as the industry leader in fast casual.”
Through this four-pillar plan, Panera Bread is reinforcing its foundation and setting the stage for future growth.
