In the context of the Potbelly Sandwich Works Franchise Agreement Rider for Washington, what does 'we,' 'us,' or 'our' refer to?
Potbelly_Sandwich_Works Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
This Rider (the "Rider") is made and entered into as of the day of, 20 (the "Effective Date") (regardless of the dates of the parties' signatures) by and between POTBELLY FRANCHISING, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company with its principal business address at 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1000, Chicago, Illinois 60661 ("we," "us," or "our"), and , whose principal business address is ("you" or "your"). 1. Background. We and you are parties to that certain Shop Development Area Agreement dated, 20 that has been signed at the same time as this Rider (the "SDAA"). This Rider is annexed to and forms part of the SDAA. This Rider is being signed because (a) you are a resident of the State of Washington and/or (b) the Development Area will be located in the State of Washington and/or (c) any of the offering or sales activity relating to the SDAA occurred in the State of Washington.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–355)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Potbelly Sandwich Works' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, specifically the Rider to the Shop Development Area Agreement for use in Washington, the terms 'we,' 'us,' or 'our' refer to Potbelly Franchising, LLC. This is explicitly stated in the introductory section of the rider, which identifies Potbelly Franchising, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company with its principal business address at 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1000, Chicago, Illinois 60661, as the entity to which these pronouns refer.
This definition is crucial for understanding the legal obligations and rights within the franchise agreement. As the franchisee reviews the Shop Development Area Agreement, it is important to recognize that any clause using 'we,' 'us,' or 'our' is referring directly to Potbelly Franchising, LLC, the franchisor. This clarification helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures that both parties are clear on who is responsible for fulfilling specific contractual obligations.
For a prospective franchisee, this means that when reading through the agreement, they should understand that Potbelly Franchising, LLC is the entity making certain commitments, requiring certain actions, or retaining certain rights. This understanding is fundamental to grasping the full scope of the franchise relationship and the responsibilities of each party involved.