An initial rendering showing a new Einstein Bros. store design. Press release photo.
Einstein Bros. Bagels is launching a refreshed store design called “Elevate the Morning,” with the first next-generation locations slated to open later this year in Ohio, Utah, Georgia and Nevada.
In an announcement today, the company said the format is central to a nationwide growth plan involving 100 new stores through 2026.
For large coffee retailers, the move highlights a broader question regarding store design. While numerous growing U.S. chains such as 7Brew, Dutch Bros. and Scooter’s Coffee have generally focused on maximum speed and convenience through small-format drive-throughs, chains such as Starbucks are trying to draw customers back in for more elevated or comfortable in-store experiences.
Einstein Bros. — which is part of the Panera Brands group alongside Panera Bread and Caribou Coffee — said the new stores are intended to cater equally to in-store dining, to-go orders and app-based pickups.
The company said it will offer “premium finishes, warm neighborhood character and thoughtful layouts that make every visit easy and enjoyable.” It added that the design aims to “delight guests in every moment of their visit,” in part by enhancing digital and physical experiences.
“Everything about the ‘Elevate the Morning’ design starts with our guests,” Einstein Bros. COO Adam Modzel said. “They want fresh, flavorful food in an environment that feels welcoming and easy to navigate, whether they’re dining in or picking up on the go. This design brings that to life, elevating the overall experience to match the quality of our fresh-baked bagels.”
According to Einstein Bros., the Cincinnati market will serve as an innovation hub, where existing Einstein Bros. locations and former Bruegger’s Bagels locations will be remodeled to pilot elements ahead of the national rollout. The company currently has more than 700 locations throughout the U.S.
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