Potbelly Continues Nationwide Growth Surge with New Development Deals and Expanding Footprint

May 12, 2026 // FranchisePR.com // CHICAGO – Potbelly continues to build momentum across the system, driven by franchise development growth, new shop openings, operational performance and continued investment in the brand experience.

In the first quarter of 2026, multi-unit agreements and activity in various markets occurred, with interest from operators and a steady pace of new stores opening contributing to the brand’s ongoing activity.

As the brand advances toward its goal of reaching 500 open shops nationwide by the end of the year, Potbelly has celebrated openings in the Peoria, Arizona, Charlotte, North Carolina, Austin, Texas, Virginia Beach, Virginia, Winston Salem, North Carolina and Chicago, Illinois markets. Early 2026 expansion comes on the heels of continued momentum of new shop openings in 2025.

The brand also signed several new development agreements, including a 15-shop development deal in New Jersey with seasoned multi-unit Wendy’s operators, a five-shop deal in Mesa, Arizona, a 20-shop deal in Denver, an extension to further develop in Dallas with an existing franchise owner, as well as a non-traditional signing on the University of Iowa’s campus. These growth commitments cover both new market entry and expansion in established territories, reflecting a measured, thoughtful approach to growth. Currently, Potbelly has more than 350 new shop commitments in its pipeline.

“Our development momentum in Q1 is fantastic validation for the brand. It reflects a companywide commitment to shop profitability, franchisee support, marketing, real estate and leadership,” said Jennifer Durham, Senior Vice President of Franchising and Development at Potbelly. “We’re seeing strong interest from experienced operators who recognize the strength of our model, the flexibility of our footprint and the long-term opportunity ahead. As we continue expanding into new and existing markets, we’re also making meaningful investments in talent and leadership to support sustainable growth across the system.”

Potbelly has sought to maintain stability in its performance and continues efforts to refresh the shop experience and update digital ordering, checkout and delivery flows to support guest engagement and operations.

“We’ve reached a point where we’re being admired and recognized industrywide,” said Adam Noyes, President and CEO of Potbelly. “From our franchise partners to our support teams, there’s a shared focus on executing at a high level and building something that lasts. That alignment allows us to grow with intention while delivering a consistent experience in every market.”

SOURCE Potbelly Sandwich Works