How does Potbelly Sandwich Works formally accept a proposed site?
Potbelly_Sandwich_Works Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (2) We will accept or reject each site for which you submit to us complete applications in accordance with Section 3.02(1) and, if we accept such site, we will do so by delivering our standard franchise site package.
Our site acceptance letter, duly executed by us, is the exclusive means by which we accept a proposed site, and no other direct or indirect representation, approval or acceptance, whether in writing or verbally, by any of our officers, employees or agents, shall be effective or bind us.
We will use all reasonable efforts to make a site acceptance decision and, if the site is accepted, deliver a site acceptance letter to you, within 30 days after we acknowledge receipt of the complete site report and any other materials we have requested.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–355)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Potbelly Sandwich Works's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the formal acceptance of a proposed site is explicitly defined. After a franchisee submits a complete application, including a site application form with details like traffic patterns, parking, neighborhood character, and competition, Potbelly Sandwich Works will either accept or reject the site. If Potbelly Sandwich Works accepts the site, it will do so by delivering its standard franchise site package.
The document emphasizes that the site acceptance letter, duly executed by Potbelly Sandwich Works, serves as the exclusive means of formal acceptance. No other form of communication, whether written or verbal, from any officer, employee, or agent of Potbelly Sandwich Works, is considered binding. This is a critical point for prospective franchisees to understand, as it ensures that only the official site acceptance letter holds legal weight.
Potbelly Sandwich Works commits to making a decision on site acceptance and delivering the acceptance letter, if applicable, within 30 days after acknowledging receipt of the complete site report and any other requested materials. However, Potbelly Sandwich Works retains the absolute right to reject any site that does not meet its criteria. This process underscores the importance of thorough due diligence and adherence to Potbelly Sandwich Works's site selection criteria when proposing a location for a new franchise.