Panera Franchisee Gobbles Up More Bakery-Cafes

Columbus Business First:

The Panera Bread Co. franchisee for Central Ohio celebrated its first year in the market by buying five more of the bakery-cafes.

Warren-based Covelli Enterprises Inc. has filled out its network in the central and northeast parts of the state after purchasing eateries in Mansfield, Marion, Wooster and Lima for an undisclosed amount.

“This ties the Columbus market and Cleveland markets together,” owner Sam Covelli said. “We always wanted those five stores in between.”