Panera Bread(R) Introduces MyPanera(TM) Loyalty Program

ST. LOUIS, MO–(Marketwire – November 17, 2010) – Panera Bread Company (NASDAQ: PNRA) today completed the nationwide rollout of its new customer loyalty program, named MyPanera. The program has been in development and test for 18 months and has been extremely well received to date. 

Designed to be closely aligned with Panera’s core values and mission of delivering a unique experience to its guests, the intent of the ‘Surprise and Delight’ loyalty program is to connect more deeply with Panera’s customers by delivering unexpected and highly-relevant rewards for dining at Panera Bread bakery-cafes. 

MyPanera will offer loyalty program members exclusive invitations, experiential opportunities like baking with Panera bakers, preview tastings of new menu items, as well as recipes, cooking tips and surprises such as a free bakery-cafe menu item. The program becomes increasingly personalized as a member frequents Panera and spends more time in the program.

“MyPanera is a loyalty program done the Panera way. Our brand has always demonstrated value to be far more than price. So unlike the typical buy 10 get one free type loyalty programs, MyPanera is focused on fostering unique relationships with our customers through deeply understanding how each guest enjoys and interacts with Panera today, and new ways they might like to in the future,” said Bill Moreton, Panera Bread CEO and president. 

To date the program has shown to have a meaningful impact on frequency of visit, and rolls out nationally with over two million customers already participating. 

Moreton concluded, “We have been very deliberate over the years in getting to know our customers, which has allowed us to create a highly personalized loyalty program. Panera customers are so connected to the company’s brand promise and values that they expect us to deliver something different, better. We are confident the MyPanera program will be seen as quintessential Panera in the eyes of our loyal customers and be regarded among the restaurant and retail industry’s best.”

Customers can pick up a MyPanera card at any bakery-cafe and register via www.MyPanera.com or by completing and submitting a form in the bakery-cafe.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,421 bakery-cafes as of September 28, 2010 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting, and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, and select organic and all natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com.