Breadsmith

Breadsmith is a well-regarded bakery franchise that specializes in crafting artisan, European-style breads using traditional, handcrafted methods. The company was founded in 1993 by Dan Sterling in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Sterling was inspired by his experiences with European breads during his studies in Norway and his business education at Harvard. The first Breadsmith bakery quickly gained popularity for its dedication to scratch baking and the use of high-quality, unbleached wheat flour. By 1994, the company began franchising, allowing independent operators to open locations under the Breadsmith brand while adhering to its recipes and standards.

Under the leadership of Tim Malouf, who became president in 2006, Breadsmith has continued to grow and innovate its product lineup. As of November 2025, the company operates 36 locations across 16 states, with a strong presence in the Upper Midwest. Recent expansions have brought Breadsmith into new markets such as Bellevue, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio. The company is targeting further growth in regions like Ohio, Kentucky, Texas, Maryland, and South Carolina.

Each Breadsmith bakery features a signature stone hearth oven, capable of baking up to 160 loaves at a time. The menu boasts a wide variety of breads, including French boule, baguette, sourdough, rustic Italian, and whole wheat, alongside specialty items like brioche, ciabatta, focaccia, and dessert breads. Breadsmith’s franchise model emphasizes local ownership, with stores serving both retail customers and wholesale accounts, including restaurants and grocers.

For commercial real estate professionals, Breadsmith represents a credible and attractive tenant. Its established brand, proven franchise system, and adaptable retail formats make it a suitable fit for neighborhood centers and mixed-use developments. The company's focus on quality and consistency ensures that it remains a valued addition to any community it enters.