News

Panera adds new test facility to enhance bakery business

May 14, 2014

Panera Bread Co. has unveiled a new test bakery facility in New Haven, Conn. According to a news release, the company is using the facility to test new products while reimaging Panera signatures, such as grains and croissants, with updated fillings and flavors.

It is also experimenting with staffing models, and is conducting the tests in full view of customers during the day. The goal, according to the company, is to “enhance the bakery side of the business.”

"Panera began with bread," head baker Tom Gumpel said in the release."It's our passion, soul and expertise. Our test bakery is an example of our continued focus on our identity as bakers, as we push ourselves to keep learning how best to lay out, staff and operate our bakeries."

Panera is studying the test location to understand how updated products and staffing models could affect its nearly 1,800 bakery-cafes.

Several innovations are already planned to roll out across the chain this year. A new sprouted grain bread offering, currently testing at the New Haven bakery, will be available in all Panera locations as a bagel flat beginning this month.

"We are one of the first restaurant chains in our industry to offer sprouted grain bread products to our customers," Gumpel said. "This grain wasn't available to purchase at scale when we started testing, but through relationships with our millers we've been able to grow the supply. This is another nutritious whole grain that Panera is making accessible to its customers in popular bagel form. It's an incredible step forward for our bakeries."

Staffing models that allow bakers more customer interaction during the day are also planned to roll out systemwide this year. In the meantime, the brand remains committed to baking fresh bread at all locations.

"Our commitment to baking is on display in every one of our 1,800 bakery-cafes," chief concept officer Scott Davis said in the release. "Our test bakery is an extension of that commitment and bakery leadership."

On May 7, Panera introduced a new lineup of flatbread sandwiches nationwide, including Mediterranean Chicken, Thai Chicken and Southwestern Chicken. Flatbreads will be baked daily by Panera bakers at all locations.