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Panera Bread Essay

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Panera Bread Essay
Topic: Panera Bread Company Case Study
An analysis of Panera Bread Company’s business strategies was requested. I have evaluated Panera’s performance in regards to their competitive position in the food industry, as well as, their internal characteristics. My thorough assessment follows the restated question.

1. What is Panera Bread’s strategy? Which of the five generic competitive strategies discussed in Chapter 5 most closely fit the competitive approach that Panera Bread is taking? What type of competitive advantage is Panera Bread trying to achieve?

Panera Bread Company’s strategy is to differentiate from other fast-casual chains and full-service competitors with their quality products and attention to detail. The way Paneraachieves
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This strategy is a combination of a low-cost provider and a differentiation strategy. They aim to satisfy buyer’s expectations with their attractive attributes at a low cost. Panera has placed themselves in a segment that creates competition with both dining and fast food restaurants. Because of this,Panera has to offer highquality products that are as valued as quality restaurant food and at a price point to compete with fast food chains. The way they differentiate is by having a range of full service and self service locations where customer service is courteous, capable and efficient. (Gamble) Also, they differentiate with their wide variety of freshly baked food that is unique to market as well as being baked in their in-house bakery that is designed to be pleasing to the eye and inviting.

The competitive advantage that Panera is trying to achieve is differentiation through their high quality goods and welcoming cafes. Soups, sandwiches, and bagels can be bought in a number of places but Panera is unique because they offer freshly baked products, great service and a comfortable environment. Their competitive advantage is also their strategy.

2. What does a SWOT analysis of Panera Bread reveal about the overall attractiveness of its situation? Does the company have any core competencies or distinctive competencies?

A SWOT analysis is an examination of a company’s
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There are a lot of marketing strategies that Panera have not utilized such as coupons, seasonal specials or a strong social media presence. If they can reach their customers they can effectively get the message out about their high quality product at a low price. Using social media to market their business could be an easy way to reach customers who have heard of Panera but don’t know what it is exactly. Lastly, the site and environmental issues include location of stores and insuring customer traffic but also the way the stores look inside such as their inviting atmosphere. There has to be constant moves to growing the business into new areas. The company could also do customer polls and ask for feedback to see how they are

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