Panera Bread Is a Chain of Cafes Serving Sandwiches, Soups

Multiple Choice

Panera Bread is a chain of cafes serving sandwiches, soups, and fresh baked artisan breads. The company began in 1981 with stores primarily located along the east coast of the U.S. Since then, the firm has expanded to over 1,300 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. The firm has strong earnings and has been designated by Business Week as a "Hot Growth Company." Panera Bread executives are considering the idea of expanding globally by opening cafes in Asia through a franchising strategy. Which of the following questions is LEAST relevant to Panera Bread's decision to expand into Asia through franchising?

A) Will Panera Bread franchisors in Asia have access to the supplies needed for the menu?
B) What aspects of the Asian culture might conflict with Panera Bread's menu offerings?
C) What marketing techniques will Panera Bread be able to use for Asian franchises?
D) What are the strengths and weaknesses of Panera Bread's Asian competitors?