Blockbuster Out, Panera in on Elmwood

mmmmmm Cheesey bread

The chains-are-a-comin'-to-Buffalo. Batten down the hatches....

Or in this case a chain is replacing a chain. I'd much rather see bread than the crap coming out of Hollywood.

This is good (im not much of a panera fan) but man if it was a Brugger's Bagels I would have squealed with joy.

I somewhat lament the loss of Blockbuster, but welcome the change. That building needs some help and Panera usually does a nice job of incorporating patio areas, which will hopefully make that little stretch more vibrant.

I wonder if this will hurt Spot of Globe at all? Spot's clientele is kinda different but globe and panera overlap

We will see what happens.... Panera is better than Blockbuster but do we really need another breakfast, lunch place in this block and or area? I imagine, Globe, Spot, Acropolis, O3 arent happy at all and will see a few of the smaller places close in the next few years....Panera would be great somewhere else...Zettis location.....

Dolci will be impacted as well....The only real benefit will be more space to relax on an outdoor patio and also they will have a real bakery...Something that Elmwood hasnt gotten....

but this might be better......

http://www.cornerbakerycafe.com/Press/Details/12-04-10/corner_bakery_cafe_to_enter_kansas_city.aspx

i cant wait for this to open! i can pretty much guarentee that there will be a lawsuit from someone! the buffalo way

I enjoy Panera I just wish they didn't have to be so predatory in their proximity to Spot.

Ideally it would be downtown, near/on the waterfront or in another burgeoning area like Amherst or Grant Street.

Come on city planners - do your job. Let's help create hubs of business in new areas not destroy established businesses through corporate competition.

We need to call on our city leaders to make better decisions when welcoming corporate chains.

Can't wait till the national clothing stores start moving here.

Well, it will bring more people to Elmwood. Panera does seem to be quite popular, and my understanding is they are generally good neighbors in terms of letting community groups have meetings, play board games, etc., in their space.

I am not a big fan of national chains in general, but it has to be admitted that in our current economic culture, national chains like Panera or even Dinosaur BBQ (majority owned by George Soros but managed by the original owners from Syracuse) moving into the city of Buffalo do indicate a positive change in perception about these neighborhoods.

I do wish Elmwood would get a larger diversity of shops. Video rental stores are a business model that is fading away, but it's a little sad to see an everyday household amenity like a video shop replaced with yet another restaurant. Diversity of type of shops is one thing Hertel has over Elmwood, for sure.

I do truly fear that Buffalo could see a mall-ification in its future if it is not careful--it has happened in cities across the country, and in cities with much smarter, more progressive leadership. The city is getting cleaned up enough for people to venture in from the suburbs....and, with them, comes more money and a desire to frequent venues (like Paneras) with which they feel comfortable.

At the end of the day, it will be up to consumers to continue to support locally-owned and run establishments. The need for organizations like Buffalo First! are becoming more critical.

panera would be better suited downtown I would rather go to globe or spot for my sandwiches salad and soup.

I may be one of the only people that will lament the loss of blockbuster. I live in pretty close proximity to this area, and the ability to bike down there to pick up a blu-ray, or video game for an evening has always been a nice convenience. Had this been 2-3 years ago when Netflix still had so many of the major movie labels, and they had a much more vast catalog, I wouldn't have been as upset; however netflix has almost nothing of interest now. In order to reliably have access to a movie you want to watch, you need concurrent subscription to Hulu+, Amazon prime, and Netflix. And the MPAA wonders why pirating is so huge, haha!!!

What's the nearest movie/video game rental place now that they're moving out? Probably the family video on colvin, which is a good 15-20 minute drive. Again not the worst, but still an inconvenience.

So what are we getting in blockbusters place? ANOTHER restaurant/coffee shop, in an area already congested with the like. Not to mention it is a huge chain!! I fear for Globe, spot, Cafe Aroma, Dolci, and the slew of other coffee shops in the village. Here's to hoping that the planning board for some reason vetos this proposal.

In the last two days two popular chains are opening up shop in the city, (Both of which are upgrades) and yet the majority of people on this site cannot find an ounce of happiness for this news.

DMZ I'm totally happy about new business but, new development requires responsibility and planning. Previous planning in this city, or lack thereof, has created many of the bottlenecks in development we have seen up to this point.

New business is great but it has to be created with an eye toward the long term. Putting a popular chain cafe in the same building as an thriving independent cafe is not good. Yes it creates jobs but, if Panera edges spot out or Globe Market - those jobs go, the jobs of the businesses that supply.

Putting it in an area or on a block that is not already occupied by the same type of business is more beneficial. It creates jobs, and it attracts other new business, fostering new growth.

We don't need the city board of planners. We could show Panera suport and encouragement while asking them to consider other locations via petition. Anyone can start one at www.change.org.

Panera's coffee is horrible. Spot's coffee is great. They also have better food. They'll be fine. Isn't there a Starbucks almost right next to Talking Leaves? They seem to be doing fine. People (especially people in that area) appreciate quality and local establishments.

Panera is more of a quick breakfast/lunch/dinner place. I welcome the vibrancy it will bring to the street and hope they somehow implement outside dining.

Williamsville has a Cafe Aroma, Panera, Starbucks, Coffee Culture and Spot all within a mile of each other and last I checked they all do just fine. People will go where they want and where they enjoy the food/drink.

As far as the corporate chains in the city...bring it on! Any investment in the city is better than investment in Clarence or Amherst if you ask me. Would you rather a Whole Foods be on Transit Rd. or somewhere downtown? I think the answer to that question is rather obvious.

Both Globe and Spot have locations downtown as well so who's to say Panera won't head there next. They probably find Elmwood more suitable because it dosn't empty out at 5. This same conversation happened when Starbucks came to Elmwood and the private coffee shops have done just fine.

I am strangely sorry to see Blockbuster go because I am a hold-out for rentals, not NetFlix, etc. I am looking forward to the day that we come full-circle and there are again local movie stores. Also, Panera is sad.

I remember when Starbucks announced they were moving across the street from Spot on Delaware. Many of us feared the worse, and what is it now, like 12, 13 years later, both are doing fine? Moving on.

Regardless of anything else, the removal of the blue and gold plastic awning will be a HUGE improvement.

Dear everyone worried about Spot and Globe:

Fear not for your local brands; we are coming out with a cheap monthly service, offering easy access to tooth-chipping French Baguette and a mediocre-at-best menu.

Regards, Netflix.

Elmwood could use some healthy competition, like how about some better hours and quicker service. Ever try to get a quick bite to eat on lunch break at Globe Market? Their food is amazing but they take forever. And after 6pm it's anyone's guess which stores are still open. A couple corporate chains aren't going to ruin Elmwood. Starbucks, Burger King, Pier One, and Subway all proved that to be 100% true. In most cases it's the corporate chain that takes a beating.

I can't wait for Panera... Bring it!

This is good news, diversity is an excellent thing. Locals and chains need to mingle together to form a healthy mix.

For those who think it's a good idea to micromanage business location... this only really works in a place like a mall or large shopping center where there is a central management structure that's capable of making sound business decisions based on numbers instead of silly opinions no one can agree upon. Cities should never embrace the above model; city shopping districts are all about spontaneity and being different from the homogenized suburban norm.

I love Panera and hope that once the Family Video on Hertel inevitably folds, they take that spot over too. At least the parking lot would see some use.

I think that Paneras would be an exellent addition to Elmwood. So what if it is a national chain, that alone will help bring more recognition and customers into the Elmwood Village area. You cannot just restrict business development on Elmwood just to these little, price gouging mom and pops. It is time for more variety and a more diverse selection. Anyone who opposes Panera coming onto Elmwood is a brain dead fool.

The inner harbor is going to need an amazing outdoor patio restaurant, bakery, coffee shop.... A place where people can go, sit, read, drink coffee, listen to music and relax ...... An upscale coffee shop like

Huzzah! I like Panera. I also like Globe and Spot, but what I like the most is options. I'll frequent all three.

I don't understand it when people say it's up to us as consumers to be patrons of local businesses. Competition is good for consumers, and it's up to the local businesses to remain competitive with regional and national stores by providing quality products at reasonable prices. I'll support local business ventures over chains so long as the value is competitive. I'd prefer to buy locally and be a patron of small Buffalo businesses, but I'm not going to spend a great deal more money than I need to just to keep these stores and restaurants afloat.

Panera's got NOTHING on Globe Market. I don't generally eat at chains but every once in a while I find myself at one for lack of a better place to eat. I was actually kind of looking forward to eating at Panera since it's style of food seemed right up my alley. I tried it different 3 times and every time I was disappointed. I'm not trying it again. Mediocre food and PRICEY. I don't mind spending $10-12 on a fast lunch if it's worth it but Panera just isn't worth it. Even so, people like it and I don't doubt they'll have a line out the door every day at lunch time.

Won't miss the blue awning.

The Blockbuster building ... this area of 1 story blank boxes...its just ripe for the other new builds with lovely retail on the first floor and 2nd & 3rd floor residential.

Elmwood and Hertel always had character because their lack of chain stores and predominant locally owned store. There are so many food choices in Buffalo that Panera's is nothing more than an option.

Still...put me in the category that would like to see a new build with residential.

A 1920 period new build that fits in with the character of the neighborhood.

A few chain stores are necessary to get the respect of people from out of town - they show that this is a "place worth frequenting." Yes, I realize we all know that it is, but if you're an out-of-towner visting Elmwood on a quick foray from Niagara Falls, say, and you don't know what Dolci is, you might be comforted that there is a place you know. This is why chain hotels work as a concept. In any case, in city after city, including NYC or Chicago where chains are everywhere, independents continue to thrive, at least the good ones. So, the coming of Panera is great news in my view. If Elmwood starts becoming saturated by chains, that would be a problem, but we're nowhere even close to that...

How many times have you been in another city, in search of lunch/dinner in a place you're familiar with. Type in Panera into your phone or GPS, and get taken to a great neighborhood you never knew existed?
Now think of everyone coming in for business or healthcare, doing the same thing, and deciding to tack on some souvenir purchases at Positively Main St or Spoiled Rotten (both within view)?
Or they're as daring as the readers on this blog, see the Panera but then see Spot, Globe, Wasabi, Blue Fin etc right next door and decided to try something new?

This can only help with out of towners (or new to towners), and the locals can make up their own minds on where to eat.

Seems like I saw something about all this on Twitter...

I feel the same about this as the Dino BBQ article- I can't decide for certain one way or another what I think about either location choice. On the other hand, I'm confident both new tenants will greatly improve both the appearance of their buildings, and more importantly the amount of people going to their buildings.

I think it's safe to say is that panera will get this place looking a lot better than it does now- i'm sure we can expect a patio, more attractive signage, and a little overdue maintainance on the side parking lot, at a minimum.

I know it leaves a bad taste in some people's mouths here, but it's nice to finally see a few new chains coming into the city!

This is great for Elmwood. There are people in this world who do not like to try new things and a lot of people love Panera. If people are thinking about coming down to shop and know that a place they enjoy is down there then its a win win.

What's the difference between a "good chain" and a "bad chain" in your eyes?

From what I often see on BR, it seems like it just comes down to local ownership, or the perception of such. Mighty Taco good, Dinosaur bad. Spot good (even though it's not locally owned), Panera Bread bad.

How far away much a chain be to be "bad?" If you're against Dinosaur because they're from Syracuse, and therefore not local, would you balk at a Gimme Coffee from Ithaca in Allentown? An Aladdin's Eatery from Cleveland on Elmwood? Do Canadian-owned chains get a pass, as it appears from the positive reception Coffee Culture, Tim Horton's, and Spot usually receive?

If you're against out-of-town chains in Buffalo, would you boycott Delta Sonic if you have to fill your tank and get your car washed in Chicago, because they're not local? How about Chocolate Bar in Louisville? Tuxedo Junction pretty much anywhere?

I think the restaurants will be able to coexist. Typically, people coming down to Elmwood aren't looking to dine at a chain.
However, if the chain brings down different people, that are not currently visiting Elmwood, and these chain people purchase an item from a local retailer while their on Elmnwood,then it's a plus.

Globe blows Panera clear out of the water in every way shape and form. Would have enjoyed a local upstart to take over that prime Elmwood spot.

Wow! This is fantastic news. Not because I necessarily want to see chains coming to Elmwood, but I think a chain like this gives some credibility and familiarity to out of town visitors and suburban dwellers, both of which are critical to the continued success to Elmwood and the local businesses that thrive there.

These businesses can absolutely co-exist, as long as there's a clear differentiation between them. Dolci = sweets, Spot = coffee and snacks, Panera = bread. That seems like not only a differentiation from my point of view, but also a complementary offering to nearby residents.

Blockbuster has been an eyesore for years. Panera will offer a much more aesthetically pleasing environment and will likely encourage additional growth on the street. Really exciting for the community.

Won't the addition of Panera and the 6-story apartment building across the street basically remove all of the extra, free, off-street parking from Elmwood Ave.?

It is a great thing that it is difficult to find parking on Elmwood (it shows how popular and vibrant this area is, but the free parking lot next to Globe Market is great and now it is going to disappear!

It's hard enough to find a place to park now WITH this lot. How will it be without it? (And I'm pretty sure Panera, with their re-build will both remove some of the parking spots the lot next to them has AND will probably limit those spots to ONLY customers of their business.) What will all the suburbanite/out-of-town Christmas shoppers do?
Probably go to the mall once they can't find a convenient place to park on Elmwood.

Maybe I'm being negative.

I agree. I will miss Blockbuster as well. I have blockbuster online and it is a great convenience to be able to return my movies at a brick and mortar location. Since I do not have digital cable and cannot watch movies on demand, this is my best option. Redbox is too pricey for the time that I like to keep my movies.

Spot is not a chain. They were a locally owned business for many years, with several locations, and they were taken over by a canadian company when Mike and Sally skipped town. They did not come in to a neighbourhood and drive out other business. My issue with panera is that it is the fast food version of a cafe. It is geared toward suburbanites and whenever an area starts to cater to people from outside the gentrification begins. There is a difference between drawing customers from outside the neighbourhood with great business ideas and just catering to those outside customers by putting up stores that they have near then already. Elmwood avenue is not the mall, so why do we need to get stores that make it feel like a mall. Consumers need to move out of their boxes when going to another area to shop.

When my husband and I go on vacations to Toronto, or elsewhere, we like to try new places. Local places. If there is a McDonald's or panera, we skip them to try the local version of that product. Why can't the suburbanites do the same when they come to the city? I don't get it. You can go to Sheridan or the boulevard to eat at panera, when you come to the city you should be looking for something new and different.

Both Spot Coffee and Blockbuster are in the suburbs too. So I don't really understand why a Panera replacing a Blockbuster kills any authentic city vibe.