What experience level must a Potbelly Sandwich Works franchisee's general contractor have?
Potbelly_Sandwich_Works Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Before you begin the Shop construction process, you must identify for us your proposed general contractor. That general contractor must have sufficient experience (in our opinion) constructing similar types of commercial restaurant properties. We may inspect the Site during the Shop construction and development process. You (and not we) are responsible for the performance of architects, contractors, and subcontractors you hire to construct, develop, and maintain the Shop and for ensuring that sufficient insurance coverage is in place during the construction process.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 79)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Potbelly Sandwich Works' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the general contractor that a franchisee proposes to use must have sufficient experience, in Potbelly Sandwich Works' opinion, constructing similar types of commercial restaurant properties.
Before beginning shop construction, the franchisee must identify their proposed general contractor to Potbelly Sandwich Works. This allows Potbelly Sandwich Works to assess whether the contractor's experience is adequate. Potbelly Sandwich Works retains the right to inspect the site during construction and development.
Ultimately, the franchisee is responsible for the performance of the architects, contractors, and subcontractors they hire. They are also responsible for ensuring sufficient insurance coverage is in place during the construction process. This means that while Potbelly Sandwich Works can weigh in on the contractor's experience level, the onus is on the franchisee to ensure the construction is completed properly.