Panera Bread Menu Changes: What’s New in 2026
Panera Bread has a new plan called Panera RISE. It aims to improve food quality, value, and service. CEO Paul Carbone wants to make Panera great again by focusing on sandwiches, soups, salads, and baked goods.
The 2026 plan is all about making things better for guests. Panera will use better ingredients and adjust portions to fight shrinkflation. They also plan to make prices clearer to avoid surprises.
Panera is trying out new drinks like Frescas and Energy Refreshers in some places. These changes are part of a bigger effort to refresh the brand while keeping it familiar.
This article will cover the latest menu items and what’s coming back. We’ll also look at how cafés and service will evolve to match the new menu.
Overview of Panera RISE and the 2026 menu strategy
Panera RISE focuses on four key areas: food quality, guest value, warm service, and modern cafés. It aims to meet changing customer tastes and fix menu issues with a guest-first approach. Expect updates in recipes, pricing, and in-café service to regain trust and relevance.
What Panera RISE means for food, service, and cafés
Food will focus on core items like bakery goods, soups, salads, and sandwiches. These items will taste fresh and familiar. Service will emphasize human interactions, with staff-driven hospitality instead of kiosk ordering. Cafés will also get design updates for faster service and a warmer atmosphere.
Four strategic pillars shaping menu decisions
- Refreshing the menu — streamline choices, sharpen recipes and return to hallmark items that performed well historically.
- Igniting value — introduce clearer price ladders and targeted offers so guests feel they get more for their money.
- Serving guests with excellence — reinforce staff training, speed of service and one-on-one guest care in bakery-cafés.
- Expanding the bakery-café network — modernize existing cafés and add new units where demand is strong.
How the RISE plan addresses past missteps and positions Panera against fast-casual competitors
RISE fixes menu bloat and quality issues by cutting trend items and focusing on core recipes. It also aims to reduce surprises at checkout with clearer pricing. This makes Panera more competitive with chains like Cava and Sweetgreen by highlighting its bakery-café experience and fresh items.
The strategy also targets service drift that eroded guest loyalty. By restoring staff-led hospitality, Panera expects improved in-store satisfaction and repeat visits. Early tests show positive results in average check and guest sentiment, supporting a wider menu revamp.
In short, the RISE plan combines practical fixes with menu refinements for clearer changes and a consistent guest experience. It focuses on reliability and taste, with room for modern beverage trials and limited-time innovations.
panera bread menu changes
Panera is making big changes to its menu for 2026. They want to make choices clearer and ingredients tastier. The goal is to fix shrinkflation, make prices fair, and make food more delicious.
High-level summary of menu revamp goals for 2026
The main goals are simple. Panera wants to give guests more value, better taste, and clear prices. They aim to bring back familiar items, improve ingredients, and make choices easier to understand.
Focus areas: ingredient upgrades, portion sizes, and clearer price ladders
They’re focusing on better ingredients. Salads, sandwiches, and bowls will have fresher greens and more toppings. This will make them taste better.
They’re also making portions bigger. This is to address shrinkflation and make lunch items more worth the price.
They’re making prices clearer too. Menu tiers will show what you get at each price level. This will help you choose easily and confidently.
Which legacy items are being restored or reworked
Some old favorites are coming back. Salads will use romaine instead of iceberg for better taste. Flatbreads that didn’t do well are being updated or removed.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Caesar Salad (restored) | Romaine, shaved Parmesan, house dressing | 420 | $8.99 |
| Chicken Bacon Mac & Cheese | Upgraded protein, creamier sauce, extra topping | 760 | $9.49 |
| Turkish Bread Sandwich (reworked) | Higher-quality loaf, more filling, toasted | 590 | $10.29 |
| Vegetarian Bowl | Seasonal vegetables, quinoa, lemon vinaigrette | 510 | $8.79 |
| Parm Tomato Soup (add-on) | Heartier portion, extra Parmesan | 230 | $3.00 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Caesar Salad | No | No | Yes (without croutons) | Dairy, Eggs |
| Chicken Bacon Mac & Cheese | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Turkish Bread Sandwich | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy |
| Vegetarian Bowl | Yes | No | Yes | Tree Nuts (cashew pesto possible) |
| Parm Tomato Soup | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Greek Salad | No | No | Yes (no pita) | Dairy |
| Avocado Toast | Yes | No | No | Wheat |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Seasonal Fruit Cup | Yes | No | Yes | None |
| Power Almond Salad | No | No | Yes | Tree Nuts, Dairy |
Not all changes will be visible. Some bakery lines use frozen bread, and dough plants are a topic of debate. These decisions might stay the same while the company focuses on what guests see and taste.
The changes for 2026 aim to improve flavor, portion sizes, and pricing. Panera wants guests to feel the difference every time they visit.
New beverage lineup: Frescas and Energy Refreshers testing
Panera is testing two new drinks to make their menu brighter and safer. They offer caffeine-free Frescas and caffeinated Energy Refreshers. Both are made by baristas and have real fruit in them. This move is part of their plan to update their drinks for 2026.
A simple menu table helps guests quickly see their options.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresca—Citrus Berry | Caffeine-free blend of orange, lemon, and muddled berries with real fruit syrup | 90 | $3.49 |
| Fresca—Tropical Mango | Real mango purée with lime and sparkling water, served over ice | 110 | $3.79 |
| Energy Refresher—Green Citrus | Cold-brew green coffee with lemon and green apple infusion (light caffeine) | 85 | $3.99 |
| Energy Refresher—Berry Pulse | Espresso-lean base with mixed berry infusion and hint of hibiscus | 95 | $4.29 |
| Fresca—Herbal Peach | Peach infusion with chamomile notes; caffeine-free | 100 | $3.69 |
| Energy Refresher—Citrus Charge | Moderate-caffeine blend with real orange and a touch of ginger | 90 | $4.19 |
Details of the Frescas and Energy Refreshers pilot
The Frescas have no caffeine. They focus on real fruit and a touch of sweetness. Energy Refreshers have a bit of caffeine to give a gentle boost.
Baristas make each drink fresh. This means no big dispensers and better control over what you get. You’ll see how much caffeine is in your drink on your receipt and the menu.
Markets and test timeline for the drink trials and barista-made preparation
The tests were in about 65 restaurants in Nashville, Mobile, Pensacola, and Baltimore. The trial lasted about 12 weeks, ending in early to mid-January 2026.
The goal is to get feedback on taste, how it works, and what guests think. Staff learned to make drinks well and talk about what’s in them.
Why Panera pivoted away from Charged Lemonade and what safety and brand lessons were learned
Charged Lemonade was stopped due to high caffeine levels. Some servings had almost as much caffeine as you should have in a day. This raised safety concerns and hurt the brand.
From this, Panera learned to focus on safety and transparency. They now offer drinks with smaller, labeled caffeine amounts. Baristas make them, and they use real fruit. These changes are part of their new menu items and show their commitment to being open with customers.
The trial helps Panera understand what guests like and how it works. The results will help decide if these drinks will be part of their menu in 2026.
Ingredient quality and portion changes across menu categories
Panera RISE aims to improve meals with clearer sources and bolder recipes. Expect fresher produce, heartier proteins, and more generous toppings. These changes aim to restore taste and value.
Upgraded produce and proteins
Romaine lettuce is back in salads, paired with crisp leaves and bright tomatoes. Chicken will use higher-grade cuts with clear labels. These changes will make sandwiches and bowls taste better.
Addressing shrinkflation with portion and topping changes
Portions will grow to address value concerns. Salads will have more toppings, sandwiches will have fuller proteins, and soups will be more filling. These changes aim to keep prices clear while improving value.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Caesar Salad | Romaine, grilled chicken, shaved Parmesan, whole-grain croutons | 520 | $9.99 |
| Roasted Turkey Sandwich | Oven-roasted turkey, artisan bread, greens, tomato | 610 | $8.49 |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Creamy cheddar base, tender broccoli florets, extra cheese garnish | 320 | $4.99 (cup) |
| Avocado Turkey BLT | Thicker turkey slices, avocado, applewood bacon, romaine | 680 | $10.49 |
| Grilled Steak & Grain Bowl | Seared steak, farro blend, roasted vegetables, chimichurri | 740 | $11.99 |
Bakery craft updates versus par-baked realities
Panera will highlight bakery craft in cafés and messaging. Yet, it will keep some par-baked items for consistency and scale. Fresh-baked items will be emphasized during peak hours to show artisan appeal.
Operational efficiency is key. Panera will mix in-house baking for signature items with third-party par-baked goods for staples. This approach supports quality without sacrificing reliability.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Goddess Salad | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Power Mediterranean Bowl | Yes | No | No | Nuts, Dairy |
| Roasted Turkey Sandwich | No | No | No | Gluten, Dairy |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Avocado Toast | Yes | No | No | Gluten |
| Greek Salad | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Steak & Grain Bowl | No | No | No | Gluten, Dairy |
| Vegan Grain Bowl | Yes | No | No | Nuts |
| Bagel (Plain) | No | No | No | Gluten |
| Almond Croissant | No | No | No | Nuts, Dairy, Gluten |
Menus will clearly show which items are freshly baked and which are par-baked. Panera will add new items to test guest feedback and improve the mix of craft and scale.
These updates aim to enhance flavor, portion sizes, and the guest experience. Panera hopes these changes will redefine value by providing better-tasting meals.
Value and pricing updates: new lower-priced offers and value ladders
Panera is focusing on making food more affordable in 2026. They plan to offer clear promotions and tiered pricing for lunch. This change aims to make meals more budget-friendly for guests.
They will test simple ways to make meals seem cheaper. For example, adding a $1 soup to an entrée. They also plan to offer salads, bakery items, or sides at lower prices.
Panera will group their menu into clear price tiers. This will help you see what fits your budget. Each tier will have value, mid-range, and premium items.
They aim to keep quality high while making food more affordable. Panera will invest in better ingredients. They will also keep some affordable options to attract more guests.
They will test these changes in real-world settings. This will help them balance food costs with what guests like. The results will decide which changes to make nationwide.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Sandwich + $1 Soup Add-on | Half sandwich paired with a cup of classic soup for an extra dollar | 520 | $7.99 |
| Lunch Box Combo | Half sandwich, small salad, and a bakery item | 760 | $9.49 |
| Value Salad | Seasonal greens, grilled chicken, lighter dressing | 430 | $8.99 |
| Bakery Pair | Two morning pastries bundled for a reduced price | 640 | $4.50 |
| Energy Refresher Mini | Smaller-sized caffeinated refresher for fewer calories | 90 | $2.29 |
| Fresca Cup | Caffeine-free fruit-forward cold beverage | 70 | $1.99 |
| Grain Bowl Value | Whole grains, roasted vegetables, light dressing | 520 | $7.49 |
| Kids Meal | Sandwich, fruit cup, and small beverage | 410 | $5.99 |
| Side Upgrade | Choose a premium side at a small upcharge | varies | $1.49 |
| Signature Sandwich | Full-size sandwich with upgraded proteins and toppings | 720 | $10.99 |
These tests will help shape future pricing updates. Clear tiers will make it easier to find affordable options.
Decisions will balance what guests value with costs. Panera aims to keep quality high while keeping prices reasonable.
- Test: $1 add-ons to make combos feel like a bargain.
- Tiering: Visible price ladders to lower sticker shock.
- Balance: Invest in quality while protecting accessible choices.
They will make ongoing adjustments based on sales and feedback. This data will guide future updates to their menu and pricing.
Service and in-café experience improvements
Panera is focusing on warm, human service while keeping things fast and easy. You’ll see more staff, clearer roles, and new café layouts. These changes help with menu updates without losing digital ease.
Refocus on human-centered service and “Signature Panera Warmth”
Team members will get more training on being friendly and efficient. The goal is to have a consistent warm welcome everywhere. This helps staff explain new items and pairings to guests.
Shifts away from kiosk-dominant ordering toward more staffed interactions
Kiosks will be used for quick orders, but more staffed lanes will return. Panera’s leaders say this balances tech with personal service. Guests who like talking to staff will find help with new items.
Remodeled cafés and operational changes to improve consistency and hospitality
Remodels will make cafés more welcoming. There will be clearer pickup areas and comfy seating. Updates in staffing and operations will make new options easier to find and enjoy.
| Focus Area | What Changes | Customer Benefit | Related Menu Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front-of-house staffing | More hosts and barista-trained staff | Faster, friendlier service | Improves launch of panera bread updated options |
| Order flow | Dedicated staffed lanes plus kiosks | Reduced congestion at peak times | Smoother access to panera bread menu changes |
| Training | Hospitality and product knowledge | Better recommendations and accuracy | Helps guests discover panera bread seasonal menu updates |
| Store design | Updated pickup, seating, lighting | More comfortable café visits | Creates space to showcase new bakery and beverage items |
| Consistency checks | Operational audits and playbooks | Predictable experience across locations | Uniform presentation of panera bread updated options |
- Staffing investments aim to restore in-café engagement without slowing service.
- Design updates make seasonal displays and limited-time items easier to notice.
- Training ensures staff can guide guests through panera bread menu changes confidently.
These steps show Panera’s goal to mix hospitality with modern convenience. Guests will see fewer cold handoffs, more knowledgeable staff, and cafés that feel like community spots. The changes support menu rollouts and seasonal promotions while keeping the pace customers expect.
Menu innovation and seasonal updates for 2026
Panera will update their menu to match busy times and what customers like. They will add new ingredients, improve bakery items, and offer more drinks. You’ll know when new items come out, and they’ll be promoted well.
How seasonal updates will be timed and promoted
Updates will happen during spring, summer, fall, and holidays. This way, they catch the busiest times. Each new item will have a start and end date, with big marketing efforts.
Promotions will include special tastings in some areas and early access for loyalty members. They’ll use data from tests to plan how to promote items nationwide.
Expected categories for new offerings
Panera will add new items to sandwiches, soups, salads, drinks, and bakery. They’ll focus on better ingredients and clear sizes to make things seem more worth it.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herbed Turkey & Avocado Sandwich | Roasted turkey, avocado, lemon-herb aioli on whole grain | 620 | $8.49 |
| Autumn Squash Soup (Seasonal) | Creamy butternut squash with roasted pumpkin seeds | 240 | $4.99 |
| Harvest Grain Salad | Farro, kale, roasted beets, maple vinaigrette | 430 | $7.29 |
| Citrus Fresca (Pilot) | Caffeine-free citrus beverage with real fruit | 110 | $3.49 |
| Espresso Energy Refresher (Pilot) | Lightly caffeinated cold beverage with espresso notes | 140 | $3.99 |
| Whole Grain Morning Muffin | Oats, banana, and a touch of honey | 320 | $2.99 |
| Grilled Chicken Caesar Sandwich | Grilled chicken, shaved Parmesan, romaine, classic dressing | 570 | $7.99 |
| Tomato Basil Soup | Rich tomato broth with fresh basil | 190 | $4.49 |
| Blueberry Oat Scone | Buttery scone with wild blueberries | 360 | $2.89 |
| Plant-Powered Power Bowl | Chickpeas, quinoa, roasted vegetables, tahini | 510 | $8.19 |
Testing approach and customer feedback
Panera will test new items in a few markets first. They’ll use barista-made samples and set timelines, like 8–12 weeks. They’ll look at what guests say, how sales do, and if it works in busy cafes.
Feedback from tests and social media will help shape the final menu. Items that do well will join the menu. Those that don’t will get a second chance or be retired.
These steps help make menu updates predictable and relevant. They ensure new items meet customer expectations before they’re available everywhere.
Expansion and modernization of the bakery-café network
Panera is growing its bakery-café network while making many locations modern. They aim to keep service and menu quality consistent. This includes supporting new menu items and options without losing the personal touch.
They plan to refresh floorplans and improve service flow. Back-of-house prep zones will also get an update. These changes will help speed up service during busy times and make it easier to serve new items like bigger salads and upgraded proteins.
Technology upgrades are coming to improve order accuracy and guest convenience. Faster point-of-sale systems, better mobile order integration, and kitchen displays will all help. These changes will make it easier for guests to see and enjoy the new menu items.
Remodels will require franchisees to invest and coordinate on timing. They will need to adopt certain fixtures and systems to fit the new format. Markets like Nashville, Baltimore, Mobile, and Pensacola might see new units or remodels first.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sourdough Turkey Sandwich | Turkey, aged cheddar, lettuce, tomato on toasted sourdough | 650 | $8.49 |
| Mediterranean Salad | Greens, feta, olives, cucumber, lemon-herb dressing | 420 | $7.99 |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup (cup) | Creamy cheddar with tender broccoli, served hot | 310 | $4.29 |
| Almond Croissant | Flaky pastry with almond filling and toasted almonds | 420 | $3.79 |
| Fresca (pilot) | Caffeine-free fruit infusion served chilled | 90 | $2.49 |
| Energy Refresher (pilot) | Caffeinated fruit refresher made by barista | 120 | $2.99 |
| Chipotle Chicken Grain Bowl | Grains, chicken, black beans, roasted corn, chipotle vinaigrette | 580 | $9.29 |
| Avocado Toast | Multi-grain bread topped with smashed avocado and radish | 350 | $5.49 |
| Classic Caesar Salad | Romaine, parmesan, whole-grain croutons, Caesar dressing | 430 | $6.99 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Buttery cookie with real chocolate chips | 340 | $1.99 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Salad | No | No | Yes (without croutons) | Dairy, Eggs |
| Avocado Toast | Yes (on request) | No | No | Gluten |
| Chipotle Chicken Grain Bowl | No | No | Yes (modified) | Dairy |
| Sourdough Turkey Sandwich | No | No | No | Gluten, Dairy |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Fresca (pilot) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Energy Refresher (pilot) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Almond Croissant | No | No | No | Nuts, Dairy, Gluten |
| Classic Caesar Salad | No | No | Yes (no croutons, dressing modified) | Dairy, Eggs, Fish (anchovy) |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | No | No | No | Gluten, Dairy, Eggs |
Choosing where to roll out new locations will consider franchise health and local demand. Losing some locations this year due to a franchisee’s bankruptcy filing highlights the importance of working closely with partners for smooth expansion.
New cafés will test layout and tech before being widely deployed. The goal is to create repeatable formats that showcase new options clearly and consistently across all locations.
- Nashville — prototype testing and guest feedback hub
- Baltimore — recent remodels showing operational gains
- Mobile and Pensacola — smaller-market trials for new formats
Franchisees will get guidance on remodel standards and timelines. Support will include phased investments and training to help teams present new menu items with the signature guest experience.
Expectations for new units include delivering fresh food, smoother service, and inviting cafe designs. These designs should cater to guests who want to linger or grab something quickly.
Customer reaction, controversies, and how Panera is responding
Recent changes to the Panera Bread menu have sparked mixed reactions. Many customers have praised the clearer pricing and better ingredients. Yet, some have expressed disappointment over what they see as smaller portions and frozen bread.
Here are the main points about the issues and how Panera is addressing them.
- Charged Lemonade lawsuits: Starting in 2023, lawsuits linked injuries to Charged Lemonade. Panera removed it from self-serve stations, added warnings, and later stopped selling it. The company denied liability, but matters were settled.
- Community feedback: Social media and Reddit have seen criticism of ingredient quality, the choice of frozen over fresh bread, and prices that seem too high.
- Corporate steps: Panera has introduced Frescas and Energy Refreshers as safer options. The RISE strategy aims to improve ingredient quality, portion sizes, and service to regain trust.
| Issue | Customer Concern | Company Action | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charged Lemonade lawsuits | Safety and unclear labeling | Removed self-serve access, added warnings, discontinued product, settled claims | Resolved through settlements; Panera maintains no admission of liability |
| Ingredient quality | Perception of frozen bread, inconsistent produce | RISE commitments to upgraded produce and clearer sourcing notes | Ongoing; select cafés show earlier rollout of upgrades |
| Pricing and portion size | Sticker shock, worries about shrinkflation | New value ladders and trial offers like add-on soups | Early tests in select markets; feedback is ongoing |
| Transparency | Desire for clearer nutrition and allergen info | Improved labeling pilots and clearer in-café notices | Incremental improvements; some customers want faster rollout |
Panera listens to customer feedback through surveys and online platforms. They review comments on Reddit, Twitter, and restaurant review sites. This helps them make changes to their menu and service.
Some customers see the menu changes as positive steps. Others are skeptical about the use of par-baked items. The debate continues, leading to ongoing adjustments in baking, portioning, and pricing.
The Charged Lemonade issue taught Panera important lessons about labeling and cautious product introduction. Settlements ended the legal battles and prompted updates in safety and communication across cafés.
Panera is working to address the menu controversies by being more transparent about ingredients and safety. They are also testing new, labeled alternatives to past items. These efforts aim to turn negative feedback into positive changes.
Expect more testing and phased rollouts as Panera tries to meet customer expectations, follow legal guidelines, and manage their scale.
Conclusion
Panera RISE is planning big changes for 2026. They focus on four main areas: refreshing the menu, making prices clearer, improving service, and growing their locations. CEO Paul Carbone calls it a fresh start.
They’re starting with small tests, like new drinks and better ingredients in salads. This shows they’re serious about making changes that work.
The menu will get tastier and more affordable. They’re adding more ingredients and making portions bigger. Prices will be easier to understand, with some items costing less.
They’re testing new drinks and food in about 65 restaurants. This will help them decide what to roll out more widely. They want to make sure customers like the changes.
They’ve also learned from past mistakes. Now, they’re focusing on better service and safety. Panera wants to make their cafés feel warmer and more welcoming.
The goal is to make every visit better. They want to offer tastier food, clearer prices, and a friendly atmosphere. If these tests work, your next visit to Panera will be even more enjoyable.
FAQ
What is Panera RISE and how will it affect the 2026 menu and cafés?
Panera RISE is a brand refresh focusing on food quality, value, and hospitality. For 2026, this means better ingredients, larger portions, and new beverages. The company will also update its bakery-café network.
Which menu areas will Panera prioritize under the RISE plan?
Panera will focus on sandwiches, soups, salads, baked goods, and drinks. The plan includes better ingredients, more toppings, and clearer prices. Seasonal menu updates will also be a key part.
What are the four pillars of the RISE strategy?
The four pillars are refreshing the menu, igniting value, serving guests with excellence, and expanding/modernizing the bakery-café network. Each pillar guides changes in menu, pricing, service, and store remodels.
Are there specific ingredient changes customers should expect?
Yes. Expect changes like using romaine lettuce in salads and larger portions. There will also be more protein and toppings. The goal is to improve taste and value.
Will Panera reverse the shift to frozen or par-baked bread and reopen closed dough factories?
RISE aims to highlight bakery craft, but some efficiency measures may stay. The company plans to enhance bakery messaging and quality, even if not all previous decisions are reversed.
What are Frescas and Energy Refreshers, and where are they being tested?
Frescas are caffeine-free fruit-infused drinks, and Energy Refreshers are caffeinated versions. They are being tested in about 65 restaurants. The test runs through early January 2026.
How does the drinks pilot differ from the discontinued Charged Lemonade?
The Frescas/Energy Refreshers pilot uses barista preparation and clearer caffeine labeling. It also includes real fruit infusion. These changes aim to address safety concerns and provide safer, more transparent drinks.
Will Panera introduce lower-priced menu items to improve value?
Yes. RISE includes testing lower-priced items and promotions. For example, a
FAQ
What is Panera RISE and how will it affect the 2026 menu and cafés?
Panera RISE is a brand refresh focusing on food quality, value, and hospitality. For 2026, this means better ingredients, larger portions, and new beverages. The company will also update its bakery-café network.
Which menu areas will Panera prioritize under the RISE plan?
Panera will focus on sandwiches, soups, salads, baked goods, and drinks. The plan includes better ingredients, more toppings, and clearer prices. Seasonal menu updates will also be a key part.
What are the four pillars of the RISE strategy?
The four pillars are refreshing the menu, igniting value, serving guests with excellence, and expanding/modernizing the bakery-café network. Each pillar guides changes in menu, pricing, service, and store remodels.
Are there specific ingredient changes customers should expect?
Yes. Expect changes like using romaine lettuce in salads and larger portions. There will also be more protein and toppings. The goal is to improve taste and value.
Will Panera reverse the shift to frozen or par-baked bread and reopen closed dough factories?
RISE aims to highlight bakery craft, but some efficiency measures may stay. The company plans to enhance bakery messaging and quality, even if not all previous decisions are reversed.
What are Frescas and Energy Refreshers, and where are they being tested?
Frescas are caffeine-free fruit-infused drinks, and Energy Refreshers are caffeinated versions. They are being tested in about 65 restaurants. The test runs through early January 2026.
How does the drinks pilot differ from the discontinued Charged Lemonade?
The Frescas/Energy Refreshers pilot uses barista preparation and clearer caffeine labeling. It also includes real fruit infusion. These changes aim to address safety concerns and provide safer, more transparent drinks.
Will Panera introduce lower-priced menu items to improve value?
Yes. RISE includes testing lower-priced items and promotions. For example, a $1 soup add-on with an entrée. These tests aim to balance upgraded ingredients with clearer prices.
How will Panera improve in-café service and guest experience?
Panera is focusing on human-centered service. It will invest in front-of-house staffing and training. The goal is to make visits warmer and more personal.
How will Panera test and roll out seasonal menu updates and new items?
Panera will use limited-market pilots and timed seasonal launches. It will gather feedback and sales data. Successful tests will inform wider rollouts, with social channels and guest input playing a role.
What should franchisees and customers expect about expansion and remodels?
Panera plans to expand and modernize its bakery-cafés. Remodels will support the refreshed menu and guest experience. Franchisees may face capital and coordination requirements, with some test markets being early rollout areas.
How has Panera responded to public criticism about ingredients, pricing, and past controversies?
The RISE plan addresses customer complaints about menu bloat, shrinkflation, and ingredient perception. It promises larger portions, clearer pricing, and improved ingredients. Panera has also settled Charged Lemonade litigation and implemented stricter beverage safety and labeling.
soup add-on with an entrée. These tests aim to balance upgraded ingredients with clearer prices.
How will Panera improve in-café service and guest experience?
Panera is focusing on human-centered service. It will invest in front-of-house staffing and training. The goal is to make visits warmer and more personal.
How will Panera test and roll out seasonal menu updates and new items?
Panera will use limited-market pilots and timed seasonal launches. It will gather feedback and sales data. Successful tests will inform wider rollouts, with social channels and guest input playing a role.
What should franchisees and customers expect about expansion and remodels?
Panera plans to expand and modernize its bakery-cafés. Remodels will support the refreshed menu and guest experience. Franchisees may face capital and coordination requirements, with some test markets being early rollout areas.
How has Panera responded to public criticism about ingredients, pricing, and past controversies?
The RISE plan addresses customer complaints about menu bloat, shrinkflation, and ingredient perception. It promises larger portions, clearer pricing, and improved ingredients. Panera has also settled Charged Lemonade litigation and implemented stricter beverage safety and labeling.
