1977
440
$200,000
$40,000
$1,050,000
No
Potbelly Sandwich Works is a fast-casual sandwich shop known for its toasty warm sandwiches, hand-dipped milkshakes, fresh salads, and welcoming neighborhood vibe. With a loyal customer base and a commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, Potbelly delivers a memorable dining experience in a cozy, inviting setting. As a franchisee, you tap into a well-established brand with a scalable business model and strong unit-level economics.
Founded in 1977 in Chicago, Illinois, Potbelly began as a small antique shop that served toasted sandwiches and quickly became a local favorite. Over the years, it grew into a nationally recognized brand with a presence in major cities across the U.S. Potbelly’s culture emphasizes community, quality food, and exceptional customer service, making it a prime opportunity for franchisees looking to align with a brand that values tradition and innovation.
Potbelly offers comprehensive franchise support, including:
Initial Training: Extensive training program for owners and key staff (both in-class and in-store).
Grand Opening Assistance: Marketing and operational support to ensure a successful launch.
Ongoing Operations Support: Continuous assistance with operations, training updates, and best practices.
Marketing Support: National and local marketing initiatives, digital assets, and social media guidance.
Site Selection & Build-Out: Real estate assistance, site evaluation, and store design expertise.
Potbelly is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals or groups who:
Have strong business acumen and leadership skills.
Possess experience in restaurant or retail operations (preferred, not required).
Are committed to delivering excellent customer experiences.
Have the financial capability to develop and operate multiple units.
Align with Potbelly’s brand values and community-focused culture.
Franchise Fee: $40,000
Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales
Marketing Fee: 2% of gross sales
Total Investment Range: $650,000 – $1,050,000
Minimum Liquid Capital Required: $200,000
Minimum Net Worth Required: $500,000
Franchise Units (as of 2024): Approx. 440 locations (with a mix of franchised and company-owned units)
Established Year: 1977
Franchising Since: 2009
