Running Start

Client Panera Bread Company Situation:

Panera Bread was expanding its presence in Bucks County with new bakery cafes. We proposed a community relations initiative to introduce the company to the community, build the Panera brand and drive traffic to the cafes.

Storytelling:

We identified a well-respected non-profit as the partner for a grand opening party at one of the bakery cafes. The party included the announcement of a year-long fundraising partnership. We also found an attractive title sponsorship of a high-profile series of 5K races benefiting non-profits in Bucks County. Panera cafes ultimately became sites for race registrations.

Outcome:

A bigger and better presence for Panera in a key region; a grand opening party that exceeded capacity and raised significant dollars for the charity and increased traffic and sales at cafes. Not to mention significant exposure from TV appearances and coverage in regional daily and weekly newspapers.