Potbelly Sandwiches

[G.Walker]

NORMAN — Potbelly Sandwich Shop recently announced it is providing Norman investors the opportunity to own and operate their own stores through a new franchising program.

Mike Walters, franchise zone manager for Potbelly Sandwich Shop, said the company’s top priority will be maintaining the brand’s “vibe and heritage” as it makes its way into Norman.

“Local ownership in Norman with qualified, hometown entrepreneurs will be the best way for us to continue to deliver the extraordinary experience and food our customers have grown to expect during the last 10-plus years,” Walters said. “Our fans have voiced their opinion and there is strong demand for Potbelly in Norman.

“We’re prepared to meet the demand and provide individuals with the opportunity to open their own Potbelly.”

The sandwich shop started off as an antique shop that offered food to its customers, but has grown to more than 200 company-owned and operated stores in a dozen or so states.

As Potbelly expands, Norman serves as an ideal market for the company’s franchising initiative. The close proximity to its current operations permits implementation of brand standards in operations, marketing and purchasing, Walters said, adding that Potbelly will support its franchisees with thorough training, in and out of store.

Franchisees will tap into the company’s Hubbard Workshop, where store furniture and décor is created and obtained.

“The look and feel of our shops conveys a culture and tradition that is unique to Potbelly,” Walters said. “Our store owners will also introduce local artifacts and quirky décor to give their stores even more hometown character.”

Gregg Cebrzynski, a company spokesman, said Potbelly — which already has plans for one Norman location set to open next year — is seeking franchise investors, including qualified married couples and life partner teams who are sincere about integrating Potbelly into the Norman community.

Each store will have about 25 employees, Walters said.

[G.Walker]

NORMAN — Potbelly Sandwich Shop recently announced it is providing Norman investors the opportunity to own and operate their own stores through a new franchising program.

Mike Walters, franchise zone manager for Potbelly Sandwich Shop, said the company’s top priority will be maintaining the brand’s “vibe and heritage” as it makes its way into Norman.

“Local ownership in Norman with qualified, hometown entrepreneurs will be the best way for us to continue to deliver the extraordinary experience and food our customers have grown to expect during the last 10-plus years,” Walters said. “Our fans have voiced their opinion and there is strong demand for Potbelly in Norman.

“We’re prepared to meet the demand and provide individuals with the opportunity to open their own Potbelly.”

The sandwich shop started off as an antique shop that offered food to its customers, but has grown to more than 200 company-owned and operated stores in a dozen or so states.

As Potbelly expands, Norman serves as an ideal market for the company’s franchising initiative. The close proximity to its current operations permits implementation of brand standards in operations, marketing and purchasing, Walters said, adding that Potbelly will support its franchisees with thorough training, in and out of store.

Franchisees will tap into the company’s Hubbard Workshop, where store furniture and décor is created and obtained.

“The look and feel of our shops conveys a culture and tradition that is unique to Potbelly,” Walters said. “Our store owners will also introduce local artifacts and quirky décor to give their stores even more hometown character.”

Gregg Cebrzynski, a company spokesman, said Potbelly — which already has plans for one Norman location set to open next year — is seeking franchise investors, including qualified married couples and life partner teams who are sincere about integrating Potbelly into the Norman community.

Each store will have about 25 employees, Walters said.

www.potbelly.com

[soonerliberal]

There are Potbelly's all over DC and I have to say having one in Norman is a good start. They are like a cross between Quiznos and Which Wich, just higher quality than both overall for a comparable price. Yummmmm.

[G.Walker]

Yea it will be the first one in state of Oklahoma...

[possumfritter]

Maybe they can put a Potbelly's in where Quizno's used to be on Rockwell and the NW Exp?

[Bunty]

There is rumored a Potbelly's coming to Stillwater.

The name doesn't seem a good one for people watching their weight, but judging from the significant number of people I see going around with a pot belly, not many people are.

[BigBadBen]

Used to eat at the Potbelly in Midway Airport when I was flying in & out of Chicago regularly.

Great Sandwich shop!

[BG918]

I thought this or Einstein Bros. Bagels would be a perfect fit for the space in the Boomer Theatre next to Chipotle on Asp. I was extremely disappointed to see a Subway go there instead. The old Pepe Delgado's space is still vacant though but may be too big.

[BFizzy]

Cafe Plaid, Bison Witches, Gourmet Deli, La Baguette, City Bites, and Pennyhill Subs are all better and owned locally. Support local business.

[BG918]

Cafe Plaid, Bison Witches, Gourmet Deli, La Baguette, City Bites, and Pennyhill Subs are all better and owned locally. Support local business.

I agree, but if there was going to be a new chain in Campus Corner I want it to be something not already just half a mile away or better yet something new to Oklahoma.

[progressiveboy]

I agree, but if there was going to be a new chain in Campus Corner I want it to be something not already just half a mile away or better yet something new to Oklahoma.

Agree! Potbelly are great sandwiches. Also heard Genghis Grill is coming to Norman. CC would be a great location!

[possumfritter]

I've never had a Potbelly's. For now, I'll stick with the Big Kahuna at Jersey Mike's!

[okclee]

Pennyhill is the best.

[lasomeday]

This place looks identical to Which Wich.

[MikeOKC]

I had a Potbelly sandwich yesterday. There's one 2 blocks from my Plano condo. If you're familiar with Shops at Legacy, it's right on Legacy Drive across the street from Jamba Juice just east of Bishop. They're incredible sandwiches. I'm back in OKC today and just talking about it makes me hungry for one, but I'll have to wait another month or so.

[kevinpate]

Don't know their food, but if it's opened by locals who operate under a franchise agreement, their customers would be supporting a local business.

[little1335]

Man I love Potbelly's. Too bad I live in Florida now. This would be a good addition to Norman.

[BossLady]

Yum!!!!

[ouguy23]

I tried Potbelly for the first time in Chicago 4 years ago and it was really good. Super excited

[decepticobra]

i ate at potbellys and although the sandwiches are good and all, you simply dont get enough food for the buck.

that being said, i found them to be rather expensive considering the small amount of food you get for the price. better deals can be had at quiznos, subway, jersey mikes, or other similiar sub shops.

the whole name of the place.."potbellys", is misleading to consumer because you get the impression youre gonna get a huge sandwich thats gonna leave you walking out of the restaurant with a potbelly, but the only way youre gonna accomplish that goal is to have an empty wallet.

[progressiveboy]

It appears Chicago based Potbelly Sandwiches are scouting for locations in the OKC area.




http://newsok.com/window-shopping-re...rticle/4747210

[TheTonte]

This is great! I ate there way too much when I lived in Dallas.

[Spartan]

Nice! They're in my weekly rotation here in CLE. They're also very prone to vibrant downtown locations.

[Eddie1]

Agree, nice to have other choices for quick lunch...they make great cookies too!

[OKCretro]

Great news. Their soups are very good