Panera Bread Overhauls Rewards Program with Points-Based System

The new structure moves away from visit-based rewards, allowing members to earn 10 points for every dollar spent. These points can be applied to a variety of menu items, ranging from a 250-point bagel or bakery treat to a 2000-point full entree. According to Joshua Fine, Chief Digital Officer at Panera Bread, the change responds to consumer demand for increased transparency and tailored benefits.

To incentivize the transition, the company is offering 500 bonus points to both new and existing members who make a purchase between August 19 and September 1. This bonus is sufficient for a free Energy Refresher, including the new Tropical Mango Pineapple flavor available exclusively through the mobile app. The updated program also introduces three distinct tiers: the standard MyPanera membership, the enhanced MyPanera+ status for high-spending guests, and the MyPanera+ Sip Club subscription for frequent beverage users. Previous rewards earned under the old system will carry over to the new format as the company continues its broader RISE transformation strategy.