Potbelly Accelerates National Growth with New Franchise Development Agreements, Shop Openings and National Recognition

August 13, 2026 // Franchising.com // CHICAGO – Potbelly continued its strong growth trajectory during the second quarter of 2026, expanding its national footprint through new shop openings and setting the stage for the future with strategic franchise development agreements in both traditional and non-traditional segments. During the quarter, the brand also received national recognition for its continued growth, strong franchise culture and industry leadership.

“Experienced multi-unit franchisees continue to recognize the long-term opportunity we’re building,” said Jennifer Durham, Senior Vice President of Franchising and Development at Potbelly. “They’re investing in markets where our brand can serve guests throughout their daily routines and we’re supporting that growth with operational excellence, franchisee support and strategic development.”

The aforementioned pipeline expansion through fresh franchise agreements in key growth markets includes a four-shop agreement in Knoxville, Tennessee and a 10-shop agreement for the Central Florida/Orlando region. Nick, Kenny and Ronnie Patel, a family-led owner/operator group with deep experience in convenience store, foodservice and hospitality, are behind the East Tennessee franchise growth. In the Central Florida market, Mihir and Bhavesh Patel, along with their uncle BD Patel, a 30-year restaurant franchisee of Dunkin', Quiznos and Mooyah Burgers, are leading the regional expansion. Both franchise groups are indications of the strength of the operator groups Potbelly is attracting.

New openings occurred in several states, including a non-traditional location at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach, Virginia. These openings illustrate the brand’s flexibility to operate in a variety of venues.

Q2 2026 also brought recognition from several restaurant and franchise industry media groups, as well as a major U.S. commerce platform. Potbelly was named to Fast Casual’s Movers & Shakers ranking and was listed by Franchise Business Review as a “Top Franchise Culture” brand. Additionally, Yelp recognized Potbelly on its “Fastest Growing Brands” list. These recognitions reflect the brand’s performance and ongoing franchise program, as Potbelly advances toward its milestone 500th shop nationwide.

“Our team has remained focused on supporting franchisees and our corporate-owned shops to execute at a high level as we evolve the brand in positive ways,” said Adam Noyes, President and CEO of Potbelly. “Whether it's opening neighborhood shops in new communities, expanding our presence through non-traditional locations or earning recognition from across the industry, each accomplishment reflects the strength of our people, our franchise partners and the experience we're creating for our guests.”

As Potbelly continues to expand nationwide, the brand remains focused on expanding with experienced franchisees, selecting markets strategically and delivering craveable food and the neighborhood hospitality guests have loved for nearly 50 years.

SOURCE Potbelly Sandwich Works

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