Bruegger's Opens First Bakery-Cafe in Fairbanks

Fairbanks-based franchisee plans to develop more bakeries

Burlington, Vt. (December 20, 2006) – Alaska Bagel Enterprises, led by Fairbanks native Audrey Ranstead, has officially opened the first Bruegger’s bagel bakery-cafe outside of the contiguous United States in Fairbanks. The bakery-cafe, located at Bentley Mall (next to ACS), will offer guests Bruegger’s authentic boiled then baked bagels in addition to a variety of other healthy dining options such as freshly tossed salads, deli-style sandwiches and hearty soups. This location also features a convenient, drive-up window, a necessity in Fairbanks.

“It is very exciting to introduce the Bruegger’s experience to Fairbanks,” said franchisee Audrey Ranstead. “Bruegger’s is known for its quality and customer service and I’m happy to be a part of a company that is dedicated to upholding these values. Comments from guests have been overwhelmingly positive and everyday we are seeing new faces and hearing comments like ‘Fairbanks needed a place like this!’”

“This is a big step for Bruegger’s. It is our first bakery outside of the contiguous United States and demonstrates the record growth the company is experiencing,” said James Greco, Bruegger’s CEO. “2006 has been our best year ever, and our franchisee partners, like Audrey, are a vital part of our growth and success. We’re very proud to be in Fairbanks.”

More than 100 of Bruegger’s 253 locations are franchisee-owned, and Ranstead plans to develop several new bakery-cafes in Alaska over the next four years.

Kettle boiled first, Bruegger’s bagels are baked fresh daily to give them an authentic crunchy crust on the outside and a dense, chewy texture on the inside. In addition to fresh, hot bagels, Bruegger’s offers an extensive menu that includes hand-crafted, fresh-tossed salads, made-to-order sandwiches and unique Green Mountain coffee blends, including a daily Fair Trade blend.

The Bruegger’s bakery-cafe design utilizes a soft color scheme, emphasizing natural textures and warm tones balanced with bright colors to make an inviting space for guests.

The restaurant’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

About Bruegger's Enterprises, Inc.
Bruegger's Enterprises, Inc., an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., is a leader in the quick, casual restaurant segment with 250 neighborhood bakery-cafes in 19 states. Bruegger's menu features a wide variety of authentic boiled and baked bagels, fresh-made salads, whole wheat wraps, hearty soups, specialty and deli made sandwiches, desserts, unique coffee blends and original cream cheese in an assortment of flavors. Founded in 1983, Bruegger's is headquartered in Burlington, Vermont. For more information, please visit www.brueggers.com

Contacts:

Bruegger's
Norm Morneau, Mason Onofrio Public Relations
(203) 393-1101 ext. 109
nmorneau@mason23.com