Does Potbelly Sandwich Works represent that they have special expertise in selecting sites?

According to Potbelly Sandwich Works's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Potbelly Sandwich Works does not represent that they, or any of their affiliates, owners, employees or agents, have special expertise in selecting sites. However, Potbelly Sandwich Works will furnish franchisees with their standard site selection criteria for Potbelly Shops, as they may establish at any time and from time to time. They will also provide on-site evaluation of sites proposed as they deem necessary or appropriate. Potbelly Sandwich Works will not conduct site selection activities for franchisees.

Potbelly Sandwich Works may consider factors such as the general location and neighborhood, demographic information, traffic patterns, access, visibility, location of other restaurants and food establishments (including other Potbelly Shops) and size, condition, configuration, appearance and other physical characteristics of the site. However, Potbelly Sandwich Works has the absolute right not to accept any site not meeting these criteria.

The Franchise Disclosure Document states that any action by Potbelly Sandwich Works in suggesting, approving, or giving information regarding a site is not a representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, of the site's suitability for a Potbelly Shop or any other purpose. The FDD emphasizes that the franchisee's decision to develop and operate a Potbelly Shop at any site is based solely on their own independent investigation of the suitability of the site.