Panera Bread Founder Ken Rosenthal Passes Away at 81

Rosenthal, who started the St. Louis Bread Company in 1987, leaves behind a legacy of innovation and philanthropy in the fast-casual dining industry.

Ken Rosenthal, founder of Panera Bread's precursor, the St. Louis Bread Company, died peacefully at home on February 14, 2025, surrounded by family.
Rosenthal founded the original bakery-cafe in Kirkwood, Missouri, in 1987, which grew into a nationwide chain with over 2,200 locations today.
After selling the company in the mid-1990s, Rosenthal became a Panera franchisee, opening nearly 100 stores and helping expand the brand further.
Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Rosenthal also championed community support through charitable initiatives like Panera's Day-End Dough-Nation program.
He is remembered for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to family, leaving behind his wife of 55 years, four children, and 13 grandchildren.