Potbelly Sandwich Shop announced Thursday that it has signed an agreement to add five more shops to the Richmond and Charlottesville, Virginia, areas. The widely acclaimed neighborhood hangout features toasty warm sandwiches, hand-dipped milkshakes and live music, all making it “The Best Place for Lunch.” Today’s agreement follows previous deals that brought the first two shops to greater Richmond. In total, there are currently slated to be seven shops in the region, five more joining the two already open.

The two Potbelly shops already in the area have earned a reputation throughout greater Richmond for having delicious food, local décor and a lively atmosphere. David Duke and operating owner Jay Clark are the local franchisees who own the existing Richmond locations, and who are growing the brand locally.

“We wouldn’t be able to do this without our outstanding fans that frequent the Glen Allen shop and our Downtown Richmond shop,” says Duke. “Jay and I see an even brighter future for Potbelly in the greater Richmond area because of the neighborhood support we have already seen at our shops. It is an honor to be celebrating our achievements by giving the area five more locations to enjoy.”

“We are fully behind David and Jay as they add to their portfolio of Potbelly Sandwich Shop locations,” says Chris Birkinshaw, senior director of domestic franchising for Potbelly Sandwich Shop. “David and Jay have already established Potbelly as the neighborhood hangout, and we’re confident that the neighborhoods the brand grows into will continue to love our food, our people and our local vibe.”

Potbelly Sandwich Shop first opened in Chicago in 1977, and operates more than 400 shops across the United States. Franchisees operate more than 35 shops in the United States and abroad, and Potbelly plans to continue franchise growth in 2017.