What assurance is given regarding potential earnings for a Potbelly Sandwich Works franchise?

According to Potbelly Sandwich Works's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, there is no assurance that a franchisee will earn as much as some existing Potbelly Sandwich Works shops. Item 19 includes financial performance representations but explicitly states that past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The FDD indicates that individual results may vary.

The document emphasizes that a Potbelly Sandwich Works shop's actual performance is subject to various factors. These include the amount of time the business has been operating, the shop's size, lease terms, financing costs, taxes, the attractiveness of its location, labor and supply costs, local economic conditions, population density, the franchisee's management skills, competition, marketing abilities, market recognition, the franchisee's work ethic, and adherence to Potbelly Sandwich Works's methods and procedures.

The FDD also clarifies that while Potbelly Sandwich Works offers certain services to franchisees, it does not provide services such as financing, accounting, legal, personnel, and management support, which are typically the responsibility of the business owner. The availability, cost, and quality of these services can significantly impact a franchisee's operations. Prospective franchisees are encouraged to conduct their own independent investigation of costs and expenses, and the FDD provides contact information for current and former franchisees who may offer additional insights.