The founder of the well-known bakery-cafe chain Panera Bread, Kenneth "Ken" Rosenthal, has passed away at the age of 81. Ken Rosenthal, reported to have died on Valentine's Day, was the visionary behind the St. Louis Bread Company which he started in 1987. This concept would later grow to become Panera Bread, a name synonymous with cozy eateries offering fresh bread, sandwiches, soups, salads, and an array of coffee and espresso drinks. Rosenthal's passing was confirmed by multiple reports, including FOX2now and KSDK.
In a tribute to Rosenthal's legacy, Bob Clark wrote on his website, "he had absolute, clear vision for what would become one of the largest retail restaurant/stores in North America." Clark was initially skeptical of Rosenthal's vision to create a bakery-cafe, but Rosenthal's determination and clarity ultimately led to open the first location in Kirkwood, a decision that would eventually transform the bakery-cafe landscape. This insight was detailed in a commemorative post on Clark's website obtained by KSDK.
Rosenthal's journey with the company saw an important milestone in 1993 when St. Louis Bread Company was sold to Au Bon Pain. Then in 1997, Rosenthal chose to again partner and to help form Breads of the World LLC, a franchisee that would see nearly 100 franchise Panera stores opened. These steps were key in the expansion of the brand that would stretch across the country, ultimately exceeding 2,200 locations, as recounted in an article by First Alert 4.
Despite his impressive achievements in the business realm, Ken Rosenthal was known for more than just the creation of a bakery-cafe empire. His humility, kindness, and generosity were hallmarks of his character. Rosenthal had a deep commitment to giving back, supporting various charities that resonated with his values. According to FOX2now, he was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing, leaving behind his wife of 55 years, Linda "Laya" Rosenthal, and their four children who celebrate his life and contributions, both to his family and to the countless lives touched by his community involvement..
