For Potbelly Sandwich Works, can supplier approval be temporary?
Potbelly_Sandwich_Works Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Supplier approval might be temporary until we evaluate the supplier in more detail. We may inspect a proposed supplier's facilities during and after the approval process to make sure the supplier meets our standards and, as noted above, charge you or the supplier a reasonable inspection fee. If it does not, we may revoke our approval by notifying the supplier and you in writing.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 28–34)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Potbelly Sandwich Works' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, supplier approval can be temporary. Potbelly Sandwich Works may grant temporary approval to a supplier while they conduct a more detailed evaluation. This allows Potbelly Sandwich Works to assess the supplier's ability to meet their standards before granting full approval.
Potbelly Sandwich Works retains the right to inspect a proposed supplier's facilities both during and after the approval process. This ensures the supplier consistently meets Potbelly Sandwich Works' standards. The franchisee or the supplier may be charged a reasonable inspection fee to cover these costs.
If a supplier fails to maintain Potbelly Sandwich Works' standards, Potbelly Sandwich Works reserves the right to revoke the approval. They will notify both the supplier and the franchisee in writing of this decision. This ensures that franchisees are only sourcing from suppliers that meet Potbelly Sandwich Works' requirements for quality and consistency.