Since when has Potbelly Sandwich Works offered franchises?
Potbelly_Sandwich_Works Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We have offered Potbelly Shop franchises since September 2009 but never have operated a Potbelly Shop. PSW, LLC and other affiliates of ours have operated at least one Potbelly Shop since 1997. We have no other business activities and have not offered franchises in other lines of business. PSW, LLC has not offered franchises in any line of business.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS, AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 9–11)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Potbelly Sandwich Works's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company has been offering franchises since September 2009. However, it is important to note that Potbelly Franchising, LLC itself has never operated a Potbelly Shop. Instead, PSW, LLC, an affiliate of Potbelly Franchising, LLC, has operated at least one Potbelly Shop since 1997.
This distinction is important for prospective franchisees because it clarifies the roles of the different entities within the Potbelly Sandwich Works franchise system. While Potbelly Franchising, LLC is responsible for granting franchises, PSW, LLC possesses the operational experience, having been in the Potbelly Shop business for a longer period. This division of responsibilities is not uncommon in franchising, where a separate entity might handle the franchising aspects while another focuses on the actual operation of the business.
For a potential franchisee, this information highlights the importance of understanding the specific roles and responsibilities of each entity involved in the franchise system. It may be beneficial to inquire about the nature of the relationship between Potbelly Franchising, LLC and PSW, LLC, and how PSW, LLC's operational experience informs the franchise program. Understanding the history and involvement of both entities can provide a more comprehensive view of the support and guidance a franchisee can expect.