Business Beat: Late June opening set for Panera Bread

Construction on Panera Bread at 481 E. Loop 281 is wrapping up with the complete makeover of a former office building.

The structure is set to be turned over by the contractor to the franchisees as soon as this week.

Earl Taylor, president of Harmony Food Service Texas, which will operate the new eatery, said once the transfer takes place that hiring and training will occupy management for the next few weeks.

As of late this past week, Taylor said the targeted opening date for Panera Bread is June 25. The bakery cafe should employ about 60 workers.

Panera will have interior seating for about 120 people with additional patio seating, Taylor said.

It will also feature a drive through.

DS Construction Services received a city building permit for construction valued at $681,500 months ago for transforming the former radio broadcast offices and studio into a restaurant.

Grand re-opening

The Junior League of Longview will show off the organizations recently renovated building at 1109 N. Fourth St. with a grand re-opening from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

The structure holds offices and meeting rooms for The Junior League along with The Bargain Box retail center featuring Neiman Marcus merchandise.

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Business Beat: Late June opening set for Panera Bread