# Panera Founder Ron Shaich Invests $100 Million in Level99 Bringing his restaurant industry success to the entertainment sector. - **Source:** [Fortune](https://fortune.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-22 - **Topic:** [Entrepreneurship](https://brifing.si/c/entrepreneurship) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/3e2fb678-fe90-487a-a8c9-173291fe8be0 ## Ron Shaich's Entrepreneurial Background Ron Shaich is known for founding and investing in successful restaurant chains like Panera and Cava. Now, he's making a significant investment in Level99 to replicate that success in the entertainment industry. ## Level99's Growth Strategy Level99 stands out with its interactive and challenge-based entertainment concept. The company is executing a rapid expansion plan, including a new location at Disney Springs. ## $100 Million Investment Shaich's investment firm, Act III Holdings, has invested a total of $100 million in Level99. This investment aims to accelerate the company's scaling efforts. ## Differentiation in the Entertainment Sector Level99 sets itself apart from traditional entertainment venues by offering entirely self-developed games. This is a key feature that distinguishes the company from its competitors. ## Creative Team and Scaling Level99 boasts a corporate team of 100 people despite having only three locations. This supports the company's scaling goals. ## Customer Experience and Community Level99 aims to create a unique experience for adults by offering real food and social interaction. This is one of the core reasons behind the investment. ## Goal to Lead the Industry Shaich believes in Level99's potential to become a leader in the entertainment sector. This is seen as an opportunity to replicate the success of Panera and Cava. ## Rapid Expansion Plans Level99 plans to open four new locations next year. This is part of the company's rapid growth strategy. ## Long-Term Success Ron Shaich believes that Level99 has built the right systems and team for long-term success. This could help the company achieve its goal of becoming an industry leader. ## Sources covering this story - https://fortune.com/2026/07/22/panera-founder-cava-chairman-ron-shaich-100-million-level99-entertainment-restaurant-industry/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._