For those who are unfamiliar, Panera Bread Company is a chain that is well known for its soups and sandwiches. Many in the Auburn area know of this particular restaurant. In fact, it is easy to say that it is a staple for most in the region. For years Panera Bread was nearly the only place to go if you wanted a meal that was even close to health conscious. This will continue to be true until June 23rd, when Earth Fare opens its doors for the first time.

Earth Fare is a new, health conscious, fully organic grocery store that will be opening its doors in a few short days. Ironically enough, it will be opening directly next door to Panera Bread Company.

When you think about it, this new entry could either bring a strong welcoming from the Panera savvy crowd or, possibly, it could bring resentment from the crowd that have called Panera their hangout spot for so long.

To answer this question, I traveled to Panera Bread Company to see if I could ask someone what their feelings were of Earth Fare coming to town and what their thoughts were for the future.

When I arrived, the first customer I found was a girl eating a sandwich just inside of the restaurant. I proceeded to ask her the questions that I had on my mind, and the interview went as follows:

Q: “Hi! First of all, what is your name and how long have you been in Auburn?”
A: “My name is Nicole, and I have been in Auburn for 3 years.”

Q: “How long have you been going to Panera Bread Company, and what do you think of it?”
A: “I have been going to various Panera’s for about five years now. I think that Panera provides a good variety of health conscious food. Additionally, many of my friends and family enjoy going there because it not only has good food, but has a good atmosphere.”

Q: “As an avid Panera Bread customer, what are your opinions on the arrival of Earth Fare next door?”
A : “I think having Earth Fare coming in will be great! Many people, including myself, are becoming more health conscious and are always looking for healthy eating options."

Q: “How do you think other avid customers of Panera Bread will react to Earth Fare’s arrival?”
A: “I think they will be generally pleased. This store allows for people to not only dine out but also take home healthy foods which will ultimately lead to a healthier lifestyle."

Please visit and join the Auburn Earth Fare Facebook group.