How I Built This with Guy Raz cover image

How I Built This with Guy Raz

Panera Bread/Au Bon Pain: Ron Shaich (2018)

Feb 10, 2020
42:09
Snipd AI
Ron Shaich, Founder of Panera Bread and Au Bon Pain, shares how he transformed a struggling bakery chain into the fast-casual giant, Panera Bread. He discusses customer-driven expansion, innovative solutions, and the challenges of growing a national chain. The postscript features Lisa Dalton's creation of braille labels for pantry organization, empowering independence for the visually impaired.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ron Shaich's innovative idea led to the creation of Panera, a successful fast casual dining option.
  • Shaich's decision to streamline resources and focus solely on Panera resulted in significant growth and value.

Deep dives

Overview of Panera's Transformation

Panera experienced a significant transformation under the leadership of Ron Shaich. Initially acquiring the struggling Obon Pan bakery, Shaich's innovative idea led to the creation of Panera, a bakery cafe concept that quickly gained popularity. Through astute observation and customer demand for sandwiches in addition to their bread offerings, Panera expanded rapidly and stood out as a fast casual dining option. Despite facing resistance during the financial crisis, Panera's strategic approach to the market allowed it to thrive, opening a new store every three days in the midst of economic turmoil.

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