Panera’s downtown Toronto location to open in 2012

December 28, 2011, Toronto – Panera Bread will open its newest bakery-cafe in downtown Toronto on Jan. 24, 2012. 

The new location at Yonge Street and Edward Street kicks off a year of growth and expansion in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Five new locations are planned for 2012. These will join the three existing Panera cafes in offering a warm and welcoming environment, including intimate and comfortable seating areas, a community table and free WiFi Internet access.

“Panera is thrilled to open our newest bakery-cafe in downtown Toronto,” said Barry Shannon of Panera Bread. “Our first bakery cafes in Canada – in Mississauga, Richmond Hill and Thornhill – have been incredibly well-received in those communities and we anticipate that this exciting location in the heart of the city will really show Toronto what the Panera brand is all about."

"As we continue to grow in the GTA and across Canada, we are committed to creating jobs – 40 to 50 per café – and contributing to the neighbourhoods in which we serve.”

With its identity rooted in handcrafted, freshly-baked, artisan bread, Panera Bread is committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients and a menu with zero grams added trans fat, Panera’s bakery-cafe selection offers flavorful, wholesome offerings. The menu includes a variety of year-round favorites to complement seasonal items and breads baked fresh daily in each bakery-cafe.