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Panera Cares: An Unusual Revenue Model

Ron Shaich, Panera Bread

Panera Bread started a program, called Panera Cares, to give their cafes to the community and improve the food security in neighbourhoods that were in need.  The cafe has the same quality offerings that its other branches have with the same level of service.  The only difference is that the Panera Cares stores don’t list prices but instead have suggested donations.   People can donate more or less depending on their financial ability and the dignity of all is preserved through an anonymous donation box.

Could the “pay what you can” model work in Canada?