Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB) is a Chicago-based fast-casual restaurant chain known for its toasted sandwiches, soups, salads and hand-dipped milkshakes. The company traces its origins to 1977 when it first opened a neighborhood storefront in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. Over time, Potbelly evolved from a local retailer of antiques and used furniture to a signature sandwich shop, adopting its namesake “potbelly” oven that imparts a toasted finish and distinct flavor profile to its offerings.
Potbelly’s menu features a diverse array of hot and cold submarine sandwiches, including signature items such as the “A Wreck” and “Hula,” along with customizable options that cater to vegetarian and health-conscious customers. The brand has expanded its offerings to include breakfast sandwiches, fresh salads, and a range of seasonal soups, complemented by bakery items and signature beverages. Its service model encompasses in-restaurant dining, takeout, drive-thru and third-party delivery partnerships, while a loyalty program and mobile app support order-ahead convenience and customer engagement.
With operations concentrated in urban and suburban markets across the United States, Potbelly operates hundreds of company-owned and franchised outlets in more than 25 states and the District of Columbia. The company has also explored international franchising opportunities, establishing a presence in select markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Site selection typically targets high-traffic retail corridors, college campuses and business districts, reflecting the brand’s emphasis on accessibility and community integration.
Potbelly is led by a seasoned executive team headed by Chief Executive Officer Todd Kay, who brought extensive restaurant-industry and financial experience upon his appointment. Supported by functional leaders in areas such as operations, marketing and supply chain, the management team has prioritized digital innovation, menu development and streamlined unit-level economics to drive long-term growth. As a publicly traded company, Potbelly continues to refine its footprint and enhance its value proposition to both franchise partners and end consumers.
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