How to Sell Restaurant Franchise Locations
Learn how to value, prepare, market, negotiate, and close the sale of restaurant franchise locations while protecting your financial interests.
Jul 10, 2026
Learn how to value, prepare, market, negotiate, and close the sale of restaurant franchise locations while protecting your financial interests.
Jul 10, 2026
Learn which food business models can help restaurant owners grow revenue, manage labor, control food costs, and build stronger margins.
Jul 10, 2026
Bad Ass Coffee accelerates growth with travel plazas, kiosks and more, adding nontraditional units and planning airport concessions as franchising rebounds.
Jul 10, 2026
Toronto-based D-Spot Dessert Café opens July 11 in Carrollton with build-your-own sweets, late hours, and plans for broader U.S. expansion.
Jul 10, 2026
Win discovery and ROI in 2026 with Google Business Profile, local SEO, paid and retargeting, loyalty, and hospitality that turns first visits into loyalty.
Jul 10, 2026
OpenTable’s new Gold Tables unlocks high-value guests for restaurants, rewarding frequent diners with exclusive booking opportunities and perks while strengthening guest loyalty.
Jul 10, 2026
Clean Eatz reports robust Q1 growth for 2026, driven by a multi-stream business model and nationwide franchise expansion - key insights for restaurant leaders.
Jul 10, 2026
As Crumbl names a new CTO amid major leadership changes, restaurant operators should pay attention to how technology impacts growth and stability in today’s market.
Jul 10, 2026
Qdoba is accelerating its presence in the Western and Southern US with bold new franchise agreements set to add over 110 restaurants. See what this growth means for restaurant operators.
Jul 9, 2026
Hot Dog on a Stick, under new ownership by Amazing Brands, targets expansion and modernization after bankruptcy. Find out what this means for restaurant owners and how the iconic brand is reinventing itself.
Jul 9, 2026
Explore how Potbelly's innovative approach to store design is reshaping franchise operations, boosting efficiency, and driving cost savings.


Potbelly's introduction of a smaller store design represents a significant shift in the franchise industry, aiming to combat inflation and enhance operational efficiency. With a reduced footprint of 1,800 square feet, this new prototype integrates cutting-edge features like a customized-drink station and strategically positioned pickup shelves. By streamlining the layout and optimizing space utilization, Potbelly is setting a new standard for operational effectiveness within its franchise network.
CEO Bob Wright's emphasis on cost-effective solutions underscores the importance of the new store design in mitigating inflationary pressures. The smaller footprint not only leads to lower construction expenses but also facilitates quicker build times, offering a competitive edge in a challenging market environment. With over 200 future shops projected to adopt this design, Potbelly is poised to achieve its ambitious goal of 2,000 units in the U.S., signaling accelerated growth and enhanced franchisee satisfaction.

The 'kit of parts' approach to the new prototype allows franchisees to adapt the design to various real estate settings, increasing flexibility and expanding market opportunities. By optimizing the layout and construction process, Potbelly is not only reducing occupancy costs but also empowering franchisees to make efficient and informed real estate decisions. This adaptability opens doors to new locations and market segments previously inaccessible to larger-format stores.
The incorporation of Potbelly Digital Kitchens and streamlined pickup processes in the new design underscores the company's commitment to enhancing customer experience. By centralizing digital order fulfillment and optimizing service flow, Potbelly is meeting the evolving needs of a tech-savvy consumer base. The consistent digital signage and ergonomic layout not only improve operational efficiency but also create a more seamless and personalized experience for patrons.
Potbelly's focus on sustainability, evidenced by in-house manufacturing and recycling initiatives, aligns with modern consumer preferences for eco-conscious brands. By prioritizing locally sourced materials and custom artwork, Potbelly maintains a unique brand identity while reducing environmental impact. The combination of handmade elements and neighborhood-specific artwork cultivates a sense of community and authenticity, setting Potbelly apart in a competitive market landscape.