Graphic by Audrey Kim
Lily Smith
News Reporter
After ten years of providing warm cookies and a common hangout spot for Newton teens, Panera Bread closed its Newton Center location on December 15th, 2020. While this may just sound like an ordinary closing, the news has devastated many students, especially those who frequently visited the restaurant. Before its closing, students used the space to study, socialize, grab a quick bite to eat or relax after a long school day.
Sophomore Sarah Gelbert reminisces, “Back in elementary school, my friend and I would go to Panera nearly every day. It was a fun and reliable place to hang out with friends and it was always packed with students”. Sarah’s remarks are akin to many others who share similar memories of the store.
Others, such as those on the Speech and Debate team, would go to Panera all together to do homework and prepare for their tournaments. Many members were shocked and disappointed when they heard about the closing, including a team captain and fourth-year debater, Anais Mobarak.
“We would go to Panera to prep, grind out assignments, and just hang out as a team. I’ll definitely miss our weekly visits and all the memories we share there,” said Mobarak.
While the business has not said anything regarding their closing, it’s most probable that the pandemic contributed to pre-existing struggles to fund the location. Fortunately, all employees were given the opportunity to resume their job at another Panera Bread location. The closing of Panera Bread may make some feel nostalgic, however, we are excited to see what the future of the spot holds.
