News Summary
Panera Bread has announced the closure of its fresh dough facility in Orlando, effective July 25, resulting in the loss of 114 jobs. This decision is part of a larger restructuring plan, with the company shutting down nine similar facilities nationwide. Employees will receive severance packages and outplacement services. The closure reflects a shift in Panera’s production strategy, moving towards partnerships with third-party bakers for dough production. This move aligns with broader industry trends of seeking efficiency in operations.
Orlando – Panera Bread has announced the closure of its fresh dough facility in Orlando, effective July 25, leading to the loss of 114 jobs. The facility, located on Parkline Boulevard, will cease operations as part of a larger strategic restructuring by the company, which includes shutting down nine similar facilities across the nation.
An email notifying local officials, including Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Florida Department of Commerce, about the closure was sent according to federal law requirements. This law mandates a 60-day notice for mass layoffs and plant closings. The reason behind the permanent shutdown of the Orlando facility has not been disclosed.
The affected workforce is primarily made up of 39 individuals working as “component driver-tractor trailer” operators, along with others in roles such as “mixer,” “packer,” “pan washer,” and managerial positions. Notably, these employees do not have union representation.
As part of the transition, Panera is providing impacted employees with a severance package alongside outplacement services to assist them in finding new employment opportunities. Employees have been informed that their last day of work will fall between July 23 and July 25.
This closure is a continuation of a shift in Panera’s production strategy announced last April. The company is moving away from in-house mixing and instead will partner with third-party bakers. Under this new model, dough will be produced, par-baked, and then frozen for distribution to Panera locations, marking a significant change in how the popular chain produces its bread products.
Previously, Panera has closed dough facilities in various states, including California, Kansas, and North Carolina, which also resulted in job losses for hundreds of employees. The decision to change its approach to production aligns with broader trends seen within the restaurant industry as companies adapt to challenges and seek efficiency.
The closure of the Orlando facility signifies a substantial shift not just for the employees directly affected but also for the supply chain and operational framework of Panera as they navigate these industry changes. As they embrace a new production methodology, Panera aims to maintain its commitment to quality while ensuring sustainability in its business practices.
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Panera Bread Closes Orlando Facility, Affects 114 Employees
Additional Resources
- WFTV: Panera Bread Cut Jobs in Orlando
- NBC Miami: Presidents Day Open and Closed list
- Orlando Sentinel: Panera Bread Facility to Close
- Google Search: Panera Bread closure
- Restaurant Business Online: All Fresh Dough Facilities to Close
- Wikipedia: Panera Bread
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
