House of Bread

House of Bread is a regional bakery chain specializing in handcrafted breads and pastries made with whole grains and natural ingredients. The company was founded in 1996 by Sheila McCann in San Luis Obispo, California, who started with a single bakery focused on traditional breadmaking methods and a commitment to quality. Over the years, House of Bread built a strong reputation for its preservative-free products and community-oriented approach.

By the early 2000s, the company began to franchise, gradually opening locations in several western states. As of November 2025, House of Bread operates eight stores, with its largest concentration in California and additional franchised units in other parts of the western United States. The company has maintained a steady pace of growth, emphasizing owner-operated franchises and strict standards for both ingredient sourcing and baking practices.

In the past five years, House of Bread has renewed its focus on expansion, actively seeking new franchisees in western and southwestern states such as California, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and Oregon. The brand has shown flexibility in its retail presence, operating in both strip centers and standalone sites, and continues to prioritize mid-sized cities with strong community engagement and a demand for artisanal bakery products. House of Bread’s open-kitchen format allows customers to watch the baking process, which has become a signature element of the in-store experience.

Known for its stability, measured growth, and commitment to quality, House of Bread is recognized as a credible and adaptable tenant, appealing to a range of retail environments and supporting the vibrancy of local food offerings.