May 12, 2026 // Franchising.com // CHICAGO – Potbelly, the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop, continues to build momentum across the system, driven by franchise development growth, new shop openings, operational performance and continued investment in the brand experience.
Notably, franchise development accelerated in the first quarter of 2026, with multi-unit agreements in high-growth markets, increased interest from experienced operators and a steady pace of new shop openings contributing to the brand’s continued expansion.
As the brand advances toward its goal of reaching 500 open shops nationwide by the end of the year, Potbelly has celebrated openings in the Peoria, Arizona, Charlotte, North Carolina, Austin, Texas, Virginia Beach, Virginia, Winston Salem, North Carolina and Chicago, Illinois markets. Early 2026 expansion comes on the heels of continued momentum of new shop openings in 2025.
The brand also signed several new development agreements, including a 15-shop development deal in New Jersey with seasoned multi-unit Wendy’s operators, a five-shop deal in Mesa, Arizona, a 20-shop deal in Denver, an extension to further develop in Dallas with an existing franchise owner, as well as a non-traditional signing on the University of Iowa’s campus. These growth commitments cover both new market entry and expansion in established territories, reflecting a measured, thoughtful approach to growth. Currently, Potbelly has more than 350 new shop commitments in its pipeline.
“Our development momentum in Q1 is fantastic validation for the brand. It reflects a companywide commitment to shop profitability, franchisee support, marketing, real estate and leadership,” said Jennifer Durham, Senior Vice President of Franchising and Development at Potbelly. “We’re seeing strong interest from experienced operators who recognize the strength of our model, the flexibility of our footprint and the long-term opportunity ahead. As we continue expanding into new and existing markets, we’re also making meaningful investments in talent and leadership to support sustainable growth across the system.”
Potbelly has outperformed the fast casual category in sales performance for six consecutive quarters, reflecting consistent execution across the business and continued operational focus systemwide. The brand also continues to implement its shop refresh program, furthering the brand’s commitment to evolving with the industry and upgrading the in-shop experience. In 2026, there are 50 company locations in the queue for renovations. In addition, updates to digital ordering, checkout and delivery flows are driving increased engagement and revenue performance above quarterly targets.
“We’ve reached a point where we’re being admired and recognized industrywide,” said Adam Noyes, President and CEO of Potbelly. “From our franchise partners to our support teams, there’s a shared focus on executing at a high level and building something that lasts. That alignment allows us to grow with intention while delivering a consistent experience in every market.”
As Potbelly continues to expand its national footprint, the brand remains focused on fostering strong franchise partnerships, delivering a consistent and craveable guest experience and creating neighborhood gathering places that resonate in every market.
For more information about franchising with Potbelly, visit franchising.potbelly.com.
Founded in Chicago in 1977, Potbelly Sandwich Works is a neighborhood sandwich concept known for warm, toasty sandwiches, signature salads, hand-dipped shakes, and genuine “good vibes” hospitality. Each shop reflects the unique character of its local community, all while delivering a consistent guest experience. A strong operational model, impressive average unit volumes and shop profitability consistently place the brand among the top-performing sandwich concepts in the fast casual sector of the restaurant industry. Additionally, QSR magazine named Potbelly to its “Best Places to Work in 2025” ranking, earning the spot because of the people-first culture that envelops the company. Backed by a robust development pipeline, Potbelly is entering its next phase of growth with plans to open 50 new shops in 2026 and advance toward the brand’s 500th location nationwide. As Potbelly approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, prioritizing operational simplicity, exceptional franchisee support and a focus on long-term shop profitability remain consistent across its system. For more information, please visit our website at franchising.potbelly.com.
SOURCE Potbelly Sandwich Works
Potbelly Corporation is a neighborhood sandwich concept offering toasty warm sandwiches, signature salads and other fresh menu items served by engaging people in an environment that reflects the Potbelly brand.