With value messaging on the rise, Panera Bread on Thursday began promoting an expanded version of its Value Duets deal.
The St. Louis-based chain is offering soup-and-half-sandwich or -salad pairings for between $6.99 and $8.99.
Among the options:
- Deli Ham Sandwich and Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup;
- Napa Almond Chicken Sandwich and Chicken and Wild Rice Soup;
- Classic grilled cheese with creamy tomato soup;
- Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich with creamy tomato soup;
- Tuna sandwich with creamy tomato soup;
- Caesar Salad with chicken noodle soup; or
- Greek salad with creamy tomato soup.
Eduardo Luz, Panera’s chief brand and concept officer, said the menu items deliver great value and also allow guests to explore the menu and try new things. More options are expected to be added to the Value Duets lineup later this year, he added.
Though pricing often varies regionally for most chains, within the fast-casual segment, it seems $10 is the price to beat.
Noodles & Company in the second quarter saw traffic plummet after pricing increased 13% year over year. The Broomfield, Colo.-based chain quickly pivoted by lowering prices and introducing two value deals: a $10 mac-and-cheese offering that includes a drink and a Rice Crispy Treat; and seven items under $7.
Urban Plates, a 17-unit concept based in Solana Beach, Calif., is currently promoting a 3 UP plate, including a choice of three sides and a house or Caesar salad for $9.95. The chain, which won a $27 million investment earlier this month to refinance and support growth, also has an Everyday Value menu with 13 items that are $13 or less.
El Pollo Loco last week said it is testing new menu boards, including a possible new value menu that could include items for $6 to $7. The grilled-chicken chain already has $5 bowls on the menu, but the test would look at value positioning that might involve less trade down, said CEO Larry Roberts.
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