According to staff members and management at the Olney location, Panera Bread at 18141 Town Center Drive is no longer expected to close and plans to remain open.
The update comes after weeks of speculation surrounding the future of the restaurant, with multiple employees previously indicating the location was preparing for a permanent closure in late May or early June. Leasing materials had also listed the space as “available” for several months before later changing to “negotiating,” fueling rumors that a replacement tenant may already have been lined up.
However, staff and management now say the restaurant will continue operating and is no longer slated for closure. No official statement has been released by corporate Panera Bread representatives regarding the reported change in plans. We have reached out to franchise owner Lemek for comment but have not heard back as of publication.
The possibility of a closure had generated significant discussion locally, including speculation that breakfast chain First Watch could potentially take over the space.
Meanwhile, a separate Panera Bread location in Montgomery County does still appear headed for closure. Panera Bread located at 219 East Middle Lane in Rockville Town Center confirmed last week that the restaurant’s final day of business is expected to be Tuesday, May 19. The space is currently being marketed for lease by Willard Retail, suggesting the closure has been planned for some time and that ownership is actively seeking a replacement tenant.
