A representative from franchise owner Lemek tells us that Panera Bread wants to remain in Olney, but the future of the restaurant is ultimately up to the landlord. According to the representative, there is currently no official closing date for the Panera Bread at 18141 Town Center Drive, and the restaurant is currently operating on a month-to-month basis.
The update comes after weeks of speculation surrounding the future of the Olney location, with multiple employees previously indicating the restaurant 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 new tenant may already have been lined up.
According to staff members and management at the location, the restaurant is no longer expected to close and plans to remain open for now. 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 still appears 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.
