Niren Chaudhary

Panera Brands Establishes Next Generation of Leadership

by Katie Lee May 25, 2023

St. Louis — Panera Brands Inc., which includes the fast-casual and hospitality brand Panera Bread as well as Einstein Bros. Bagels and Caribou Coffee, has established its next generation of CEO leadership and board governance in preparation for its eventual IPO. Current CEO Niren Chaudhary will become chairman of Panera Brands, handing the CEO reins to José Alberto Dueñas, currently president and CEO of Einstein Bros. Bagels, effective July 1, 2023. Former Starbucks CFO and independent director Patrick Grismer will become chairman of the audit committee. Over the last 4 …

May 25, 2023

News people restaurants

Panera Brands Appoints New Chief Financial Officer

by Katie Lee August 15, 2022

St. Louis — Panera Brands Inc., whose brands include Panera Bread, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. Brands, has appointed Konrad Meyer as chief financial officer, effective August 22, 2022. Meyer joins Panera Brands from JAB, where he has been a partner helping to source and oversee its investments, including its fast-casual restaurant portfolio. He brings significant experience in the industry, including previously serving as interim CFO of Pret a Manger. Ted Stedem, current Panera Brands CFO, is stepping down from his role to pursue other interests after supporting the company …

August 15, 2022

construction and design franchise development News restaurants

Caribou Coffee Launches Domestic Franchise Program

by Katie Lee October 11, 2021

Minneapolis — Caribou Coffee®, a national premium coffeehouse and Panera Brands portfolio concept, has launched its domestic franchise program. Since its inception in 1992, Caribou Coffee has grown to more than 718 locations systemwide including 314 company-owned coffeehouses primarily across the Midwest. Caribou Coffee’s domestic franchise launch marks the first time interested candidates in the U.S. have an opportunity to own and operate coffeehouses which were previously only available internationally, through non-traditional or licensing. Industry-leading innovations in restaurant design have further positioned Caribou Coffee for nationwide expansion, including the 2019 …

October 11, 2021