Core Points - Potbelly Corporation has launched the Potbelly 50/50 Large Area Developer Incentive Program to reward franchisees for efficient shop development timelines, supporting long-term growth plans [1][2] - The program offers financial benefits such as reduced initial franchise fees, reduced deposit fees, and a 50% discount on royalty fees for franchisees who open at least 15 shops within eight years [2][3] - The company aims to attract existing franchisees from non-competing brands with strong financial backgrounds to help scale the Potbelly brand across various U.S. markets [3] Company Overview - Potbelly Corporation is a neighborhood sandwich concept that has been operating for over 40 years, known for its warm sandwiches, salads, and shakes [5] - The company has more than 440 shops in the U.S., including over 90 franchised locations, and emphasizes fresh, fast, and friendly service [5]

Core Viewpoint - Potbelly Corporation (PBPB) is set to report its fourth-quarter 2024 results on March 6, with expectations of improved earnings per share but a decline in revenue compared to the previous year [1][3]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fourth-quarter earnings per share (EPS) is 6 cents, reflecting a 200% increase from 2 cents in the same quarter last year [3]. - Revenue is projected at $116.9 million, indicating a 7% decrease from the previous year's figure [3]. Factors Influencing Performance - Potbelly's fourth-quarter results are anticipated to benefit from menu innovation, digital strategies, and a franchise-led expansion approach [4]. - New menu items, such as the Smokestack Pork & Mac sandwich and the Cubano, along with the $7.99 Everyday Value Combo, are expected to enhance customer engagement and repeat visits [5]. - The Potbelly Perks loyalty program is likely to have improved customer retention through personalized offers and rewards, contributing to increased traffic both in-store and online [6]. Expansion Plans - The company plans to open 9 to 11 new shops in the fourth quarter and a total of 24 to 26 shops throughout 2024, which is expected to support performance [7]. Market Challenges - Potbelly is facing a challenging consumer environment, with economic pressures potentially impacting discretionary spending and same-store sales growth [8]. - Rising operational costs, including labor and occupancy expenses, may affect shop-level profitability [8]. Sales Growth Projections - The company anticipates same-store sales growth to range between negative 2.5% and negative 0.5% for the fourth quarter, with adjusted EBITDA projected between $7 million and $8 million [9]. Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict an earnings beat for Potbelly, as the Earnings ESP stands at 0.00% [10]. - Potbelly holds a Zacks Rank of 2, indicating a "Buy" rating [11].

Core Insights - Potbelly Sandwich Works is expanding its franchise network with a new Shop Development Agreement in Lake Charles, Louisiana, signed by Tim Rozell and Adam Jackson [1][2] - The agreement is part of Potbelly's strategic plan to enhance its presence in key markets through strong franchise partnerships, focusing on growth opportunities in Louisiana [2] - The new location will create local jobs and provide residents with access to Potbelly's signature offerings, including toasted sandwiches and fresh ingredients [3] Company Overview - Potbelly Corporation has been operating for over 40 years, offering a variety of menu items such as toasty sandwiches, salads, and shakes, with a commitment to fresh, fast, and friendly service [4] - The company has more than 440 shops across the United States, including over 90 franchised locations [4]

Core Insights - Potbelly Corporation is expanding its presence in Texas by signing two Shop Development Agreements, which will add 11 new locations in the Greater Houston and Austin areas [1][3] - The franchise partners, Dana and Richard Biddy, will open five shops in the Pearland-Galveston region, while Jignesh and Nitin Patel will establish six locations in Austin [2][4] - This expansion aligns with Potbelly's strategic growth plan to partner with multi-unit operators through franchising, aiming to enhance community engagement and dining experiences [2][5] Company Strategy - Potbelly's expansion in Texas is part of a broader commitment to grow in key markets across the United States through franchising [3] - The company is actively seeking passionate franchise operators to join its network in various Texas cities, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin [3] Franchise Partners - Dana and Richard Biddy bring operational experience to the Greater Houston area, while Jignesh and Nitin Patel have a background in managing well-known brands and will leverage their expertise in Austin [4] - The new franchise partners are expected to contribute to local economic growth by creating jobs and providing a new dining option for residents [5] Future Developments - Specific site locations and opening details for the new Potbelly shops will be announced in the coming months [6]

Core Insights - Potbelly Corporation is expanding its presence in St. Louis, Missouri, by signing a new Shop Development Agreement to open seven additional locations [1][2] - The expansion aligns with Potbelly's strategic growth plan to partner with experienced multi-unit operators for nationwide franchising [2] - Franchisee Todd Stimson, recognized for his leadership and commitment, will oversee the new shops, contributing to Potbelly's success [3] Economic Impact - The new shops are expected to create numerous job opportunities in the local economy, with specific locations and grand opening details to be announced soon [4] Company Overview - Potbelly Corporation has been serving customers for over 40 years, offering a variety of menu items including sandwiches, salads, and shakes, with a focus on fresh and friendly service [5] - The company operates more than 440 shops across the United States, including over 90 franchised locations [5]

Core Insights - Potbelly Corporation has signed a Shop Development Agreement with Premier Eats LLC to open eight new Potbelly shops in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and the surrounding South Hampton Roads area, marking a significant expansion in Virginia [1][2] - The partnership emphasizes Potbelly's commitment to growth and collaboration with experienced multi-unit operators to penetrate untapped markets [2][3] - The new shops will offer Potbelly's signature menu, including freshly made sandwiches, sides, and desserts, catering to the local community's dining needs [2][4] Franchise Opportunities - Potbelly is actively seeking passionate franchise partners to expand its presence in Virginia, with prime territories still available [3] Economic Impact - The new Potbelly shops are expected to contribute to local economic growth by creating job opportunities in the South Hampton Roads area [4] Company Background - Potbelly Corporation has been in operation for over 40 years, offering a variety of menu items including sandwiches, salads, and shakes, with a focus on fresh and friendly service [5] - The company has expanded to over 440 shops across the United States, including more than 90 franchised locations [5]

CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB), the beloved neighborhood sandwich shop, is excited to announce a major expansion in the Northern Virginia market through an extension of its Shop Development Agreement (SDA). This new agreement builds on the company’s existing partnership with former CEO Bryant Keil and his son Hampden Keil, with plans to open additional Potbelly locations in several areas of Northern Virginia. The development of these eight locations aligns wit ...

CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB), the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop, is excited to announce its growth in the Winston-Salem, North Carolina market with the signing of a new Shop Development Agreement (SDA). The recently finalized agreement marks a franchise partnership with Dion and Keish Hilliard to open six new Potbelly locations across the Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Burlington, NC markets. The development of these six locations represents a significan ...

CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB), the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop, is excited to announce its expansion into the Northern Delaware, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania market, with two new locations on the horizon. Known for its craveable toasted sandwiches, hand-dipped milkshakes, and welcoming neighborhood vibe, Potbelly is set to become the region’s newest favorite dining destination. Residents of Kent and New Castle Counties in Delaware, along with those in Sou ...

CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB), the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop, is thrilled to announce its continued expansion in the South. A newly finalized Shop Development Agreement (SDA) with franchisee Michael Wimberly will bring four new Potbelly locations to the Jackson, Mississippi market. The addition of these four shops in Jackson is a key part of Potbelly’s strategic growth plan to expand its footprint through franchising in key markets across the United S ...