If you’ve ever enjoyed Panera’s delectable menu, it’s possible that you missed the interesting development of the company’s logo. With a logo history as rich as their freshly made bread, this renowned company was founded in 1987 as The St. Louis Bread Company by Ken and Linda Rosenthal.
When Panera, formerly The St. Louis Bread Company, chose to adopt the name we are all familiar with in 1997, it underwent a dramatic change. But let’s explore the delicious elements that are concealed beneath the many levels of its logos, particularly the symbolic connotations of its current mark.
A woman tenderly holding a loaf of bread was the heartwarming element of the original Panera logo. Over time, Panera changed its logo, resulting in five different iterations. But one thing was always the same: the woman, tenderly clutching that necessary loaf.
The woman’s placement in the newest Panera logo is what draws the eye. She adds a warm and inviting touch by turning to face the camera, giving the impression that you are going to have dinner with a friend. Here’s where things start to get interesting, though: let’s discuss the background, which is subtle but important.
Look closely and you’ll see a green arch in the background that forms a semicircle. You might wonder, what’s the issue with this green arch. Well, its symbolism is where the hidden diamond is found. It is intentionally designed to mimic the mouth of an oven rather than being a random design choice. Think about that! The oven that produces those exquisite bread creations is where the magic happens, and the green arch is effectively a window into that part of the building.
However, the green arch is more than just an original twist. It represents Panera’s dedication to use natural ingredients in their meals. The color green, which is associated with the abundance of nature, represents the fresh and healthful ingredients that are used to make every dish on Panera’s menu.
So the next time you’re enjoying a Panera lunch, stop and enjoy the creativity that went into creating the logo in addition to the delicious food. Beyond just a woman and a loaf of bread, it’s a tale of coziness, development, and a dedication to excellence ingrained in every Panera encounter.
