KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

Tullahoma residents will be getting the chance to enjoy some good meals at Panera Bread sooner than expected as the timeline for the opening has moved up to August.

With the construction of the new restaurant on North Jackson Street–right across from McAlister’s Deli–making progress, a Panera Bread representative confirmed with The News that the opening date has moved up to early August. Its neighbor, Valvoline Instant Oil Change, finished construction and opened in the spring.

It was originally scheduled to open in September.

The talk of Panera Bread coming to Tullahoma first came up in May 2024 during a presentation to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen from the Tullahoma Area Economic Development Corporation (TAEDC). In a presentation at the time, then TAEDC Executive Director Winston Brooks highlighted some of the top retailers and restaurants who were setting up Tullahoma locations, which included Wingstop, LivSmart Studios by Hilton and Panera Bread.

About Panera Bread

Panera Brands is one of the world’s largest fast-casual restaurant platforms, with more than 3,700 company and franchised locations and approximately 120,000 system employees across 11 countries. A portfolio of complementary brands bound by common values and shared growth opportunities, Panera Brands is comprised of Panera Bread, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. Brands. Panera Brands companies are independently operated and underpinned by industry leading technology, loyalty and high-quality ingredients. Panera Bread is a pioneer and market leader in fast casual, with leadership in ingredient quality, omnichannel access, digital convenience and engagement. As of March 2025, there are nearly 2,200 bakery-cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and Washington D.C., and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread or Saint Louis Bread Co. names.