Resource and Competitive Position Analysis

The restaurant industry is a competitive industry. From low cost meals to specialty food items, restaurants have become savvy in their efforts to attract customers. Panera Bread has developed a strategy to attract customers that are looking for a change from fast food. Consumers are looking for new ideas for meals. They are looking for quality foods over cheap fast food. Panera has been able to attract and draw customers away from the fast food market with their unique food ideas by drawing upon the many strengths of the company. The company has been hindered by the weaknesses in its strategy and now needs to develop ideas to turn those weaknesses into opportunities to increase customers and revenue. A SWOT analysis of the company will highlight areas where the company is performing well and areas that need improved.
Strengths
Quality ingredients – Panera offers the highest quality of products to its customers. From fresh vegetables to gluten free items. The company offers a menu to suit a variety of customers.
Niche Market – Panera's menu items have evolved to meet the taste and demands of customers.
Brand – The company has a strong and distinctive brand
Reward card – This allows Panera to build a relationship with customers. Customers are rewarded with free food items for being loyal customers.
Weakness
Pricing – While Panera offers higher quality foods, many people are turned off by the high cost of the food. Panera's food is priced considerable higher than that of their competitors. Many of the fast-food chains offer and entire meal for less than the cost of a sandwich at Panera
Brand name – The Company is not as well-known as some of its competitors and often gets overlooked.
Menu Selection – Panera's menu is limited to soups, salad, sandwiches and bread. Customers wanting more variety will look for other food ideas.
Market share – The company is a national brand sold exclusively in the United States
Opportunities
Expansion – The Company can