Panera Bread Announces Expansion In California And Ohio

RICHMOND HEIGHTS, MO - Panera Bread (PNRA) today announced new agreements with Trigo Bread Company, LLC and Manna Development Group, LLC to develop additional bakery-cafes in markets contiguous with their current development areas.

"Both franchisees have demonstrated a strong commitment to establishing Panera Bread as a leader in their respective markets," said Mike Kupstas, senior vice president and chief franchise officer of Panera Bread. "We look forward to their continued success."

Trigo Bread Company, LLC has an agreement with Panera Bread to open a total of 15 bakery-cafes in Southern Michigan. Joyce Lunsford, owner of Trigo Bread, will open an additional six bakery-cafes in Ohio counties adjacent to Trigo's current markets.

Lunsford has more than 30 years of experience as a multi-unit franchisee of Pizza Hut.

"Midwesterners have embraced Panera Bread as the neighborhood gathering place where they can enjoy a full menu of delicious soups, salads and sandwiches made with handcrafted, artisan bread," said Lunsford. "I am proud to be able to bring the Panera Bread experience to the counties in Northwest Ohio."

Manna Development Group, LLC, owned by Paul Saber, signed its initial agreement in 2002 with a commitment to open 15 Panera Bread bakery-cafes in North San Diego. Saber has agreed to open an additional ten bakery-cafes in South San Diego by 2012. He previously operated McDonald's locations in Atlanta and Albuquerque.

"The residents of San Diego have been quick to warm to Panera's high quality menu items and unique character," Saber said. "The bakery-cafe concept is a perfect fit for the lifestyle of Californians, and I am honored to be a part of Panera's expansion throughout the state."

Panera Bread owns and franchises bakery-cafes under the Panera Bread and Saint Louis Bread Co. names. The company is the leader in the emerging specialty bread/cafe category due to its unique bread combined with a quick, casual dining experience. As released in the May 17, 2005 earnings statement, Panera Bread operates 773 bakery-cafes (243 company-owned and 530 franchised). Additional information is available on the company's website, http://www.panerabread.com.

Source: Panera Bread Company