Panera says laid-off workers will be offered job fairs, benefits, and reassignment opportunities. The changes come as Panera battles slumping sales, which fell 5 percent last year to $6.1 billion.

The fresh dough facilities are where Panera's bread dough was traditionally mixed and shaped before being sent to its 2,200 cafes. It was then proofed and baked fresh every morning in-store.