News

Panera enters single-serve coffee market

November 21, 2013

Hoping to capitalize on the success of Keurig's single-cup coffee options, Panera Bread is introducing its own branded version of the trend. The chain's single-­serve cups are designed for use in single-­serve coffee machines, such as select Keurig brand brewers, and are available in four varieties: Dark Roast, Light Roast, Colombia and Hazelnut Crème, according to a company press release.

To develop the new offering, Panera Bread partnered with the company that sources the coffee served in all its units — Distant Lands Coffee. The cups include a dual filter system: one filter allows natural flavors and oils to pass through, while the second catches grounds, to maximize taste and quality, said Stephanie Crimmins, VP of Panera Bread.

"Our customers appreciate the level of care we put into our menu, like our commitment to fresh coffee, on the hour, in every bakery-­cafe," Crimmins said. "With Panera Single-­Serve Cups we are offering them the same fresh coffee experience in their own kitchen."

In addition to Panera Bread's new Single-­Serve Coffee Cups, the company offers
bagged ground coffee at select retailers.

Read more about coffee chains.