April 9, 2020
Provided
Panera customers can now add a few groceries to coffee orders thanks to the launch of Panera Grocery.
Leveraging the Panera supply network, the program allows guests to purchase high-demand pantry items such as milk, bread and fresh produce via the Panera app or website. Customers may choose contactless delivery, order ahead and pick-up,or drive-thru service, according to a press release.
“From limited choices on grocery shelves to the growing need to limit the number of trips outside of the home, it is an incredibly stressful time when it comes to putting wholesome food on the table, and we knew Panera could help,” CEO Niren Chaudhary said in the release. “With this new service, we can help deliver good food and fresh ingredients from our pantry to yours, helping provide better access to essential items that are increasingly harder to come by.”
Chaudhary told CNBC he added the grocery service because the chain has lost half its business since being forced to close dining rooms in light of COVID-19.
“It’s a win for our associates because we will be able to keep our cafes open longer, and it’s great from a business standpoint because it should be incremental profit and revenue for us at a time when we desperately need it,” he told the news outlet.
Topics: Retail – Specialty Stores, Retail – Supermarkets & Grocery Stores, Customer Experience, Coronavirus / COVID-19
Companies: Panera Bread