I'm sure it is the point and I wouldn't want a stranger sitting with me either.
Not hurting for business no, but having bitter customers yes (apparently). I'm sure the op-er is not the only one. The later being not a good thing. How many people that don't go there, won't even attempt to go there now after reading this.
Why settle for 'doing fine'? Step it up, pleasing all customers should be the goal of any good place to eat, right?
But you guys seem to be missing the POINT. Panera Bread is SPECIFICALLY marketing itself as a place to do several things at! I can't believe you guys are having a hard time grasping this. They're not just "doing fine" they're doing this on purpose! I've said it several times. They want a VARIETY of customers:
like yourself who are just looking for a quick lunch
those looking for a meal but can hang out for a few to chat with their friend,
a meeting place where you can grab coffee
a meeting place for a luncheon
a place for students to come and do research and write papers with their headphones on
a place for young adults to come hang out after the gym for a cup of coffee
a place for young adults to fill out job applications
JFC THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS. It's how they are marketing themselves! For you to get all bent out of shape and "go talk to management" about this here young table-hogger with her laptop and headphones, guess what management is going to tell you? Well, she's a paying customer :shrug: I've seen it happen. I had someone complain about me taking up a damn TWO-PERSON TABLE. Management came over, asked me how I was, saw I'd previously eaten a bowl of soup there, still was enjoying a large coffee and looked at the customer and said she's not infringing on any company seating policies. Here, let me help you find another suitable seat and table...
If you want a restaurant that serves only one purpose, and that is to EAT...go to the McDonald's drive thru. Or better yet, go home.