Potbelly is expanding into new markets, and a location near you may be available. If you are interested in the Potbelly franchise, keep reading to learn all the information about cost, fee, requirement, ROI, training, FDD, agreement, and profit.
About Potbelly History
Potbelly Sandwich Shop was founded in 1977 by a man named Peter Hastings. He opened the first Potbelly sandwich shop in an antique store on Chicago’s Lincoln Avenue.
The menu included freshly made sandwiches, salads, soups, and shakes. From day one, the shop attracted customers with its unique atmosphere and delicious food.
In 1996, Bryant Keil purchased Potbelly and opened the first franchised store in Houston. This marked a major turning point for the company as it expanded across the United States.
Today, there are more than 400 stores located in 30 states.
Potbelly has become known for its unique atmosphere, friendly staff, and tasty food. The menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups made with fresh ingredients on daily-baked bread. Customers can also choose an array of shakes and malts to complete their meals.
The restaurant is also committed to giving back to the community. It partners with local organizations such as Feeding America, Toys for Tots, and Give Kids The World Village to support those in need.
Potbelly is a great example of a small business that has grown into an international success story. With its warm atmosphere, delicious food, and commitment to the community, Potbelly has become known for more than just sandwiches. It has become an icon of American culture and dining.
Potbelly Franchise Model
| Initial Investment: | $534,950-$874,000 |
| Initial Franchise Fee: | $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee: | 6% |
| Area Requirement | N/A |
| Total Outlets | 450 |
Why Choose The Potbelly Franchise?
Upgraded Menu: Potbelly launched its enhanced menu in early 2019 and has seen great results due to the improved “shopability” of the menu and the addition of ‘Pick-Your-Pair’ and ‘Meal Deal’ initiatives, which are driving up an average check.
Expanded Off-Premise Business: The brand’s recent national relationship with DoorDash, which is intended to target this rising consumer event, is driving additional growth.
Shop of the Future: The platform is still being tested and polished, but it is projected to increase customer convenience, improve shop productivity and transparency, optimize sales, and more efficiently employ technology.
This strategy will appeal to potential franchisees because it is expected to lower development expenses significantly.
Potbelly Franchise Training And Support
Their comprehensive training program includes both classroom and on-the-job instruction:
- How to open a Potbelly Sandwich Shop and how to build it
- Getting ready to open your new store
- Inventory replenishment and supply chain mechanics
- You’ll be Potbelly’s neighborhood representative.
- Greeting customers and ensuring that their dining experience is enjoyable.
- What transpires within the four walls of a Potbelly?
- What happens in the kitchen, and how our delectable cuisine is prepared
- Recruiting and retaining the best staff is a difficult task.
- Managing a fundamentally sound firm
- They use technology and a Point of Sale system to administer the business.
Potbelly Franchise Requirements
Potbelly is looking for franchisees who are “Potbelly People.”
That includes people who enjoy working as part of a team and have solid business experience, financial qualifications, personal motivation, and a track record.
They’re searching for an operating team that wants to be the proprietors of the neighborhood sandwich shop in their community, whether a family partnership or a commercial partnership.
Potbelly Comparison
| Company | Potbelly | Jimmy John’s |
|---|---|---|
| Founded In | 1977 | 1993 |
| Initial Investment | $534,950-$874,000 | $316,100-$558,600 |
| Franchise-Fee | $40,000 | $35,000 |
| Total Outlets | 450 | 2800 |
| Annual Revenue | $291 Million | $3.1254 Billion |
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes Potbelly from the competition?
They serve simple, delectable meals in a warm and welcoming environment by pleasant individuals.
Who is Potbelly's intended audience?
Potbelly caters to loyal, community-minded customers and is willing to spend $10-$15 on a meal.
What is the location of the potbelly headquarters?
Chicago, Illinois, in the United States.
Is potbelly a franchise?
Potbelly is an American fast-casual restaurant chain that serves submarine sandwiches and milkshakes, and yes, it offers franchises to entrepreneurs.
How much does a potbelly franchise cost?
Potbelly requires a franchise fee of up to $40,000, with a total investment of $534,950-$874,000.
Who is the Owner of Potbelly?
An investment firm, BDT Capital Partners, a Chicago-based private equity and venture capital firm, owns Potbelly. They acquired the company in 2018. The current CEO of Potbelly is Alan Johnson, who became the company’s chief executive in late 2017.
Amit Gupta is the founder of DrFranchises – a digital marketing agency that helps brands rank better on Google Maps through local SEO strategies. Amit has over 11 years of experience in digital marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media marketing. He’s also the owner of multiple franchises and has helped countless brands achieve success online. When he’s not working, Amit can be found playing with his dog.