Potbelly Sandwich Shop announced the opening of a new shop—a franchise location—in the Ballantyne community of Charlotte, North Carolina. It will open to the public on Thursday, January 17, and marks the brand’s third Charlotte franchise location, joining the nearby shops in Uptown and in South Park.
Potbelly shops have earned a reputation in markets across the United States for having delicious food, fun décor and fresh tunes making them “The Best Place for Lunch,” especially within bustling Charlotte communities. Shak Patel, the owner of the new shop, also currently owns the two other locations and is growing the brand locally with a fourth shop in the works.
The new restaurant will be located at 11611 N. Community House Rd., conveniently within the Ballantyne Corporate Park between Ballantyne Commons Road and Johnston Road.
Patel will oversee the shop’s day-to-day operations, including hiring staff and booking local musicians.
“I wouldn’t be able to open a third location without the loyalty of our outstanding fans that have made Potbelly a favorite here in Charlotte,” says Patel. “It is an honor to be celebrating the success of the first two locations by opening another for more fans to enjoy our tasty sandwiches, salads, shakes, cookies and more.”
Patel began operating his first location in Uptown in early January 2017, followed by his second location in May of 2018. The momentum of both of the shops have primed the market for a third.
“Shak’s passion for what makes Potbelly so unique is truly inspiring,” adds Jeff Welch, senior vice president of franchise development and operations for Potbelly Sandwich Shop. “We know he will continue to make his shops a perfect fit for Charlotte, and we’re excited to be by his side as he continues to expand the Potbelly footprint to reinforce our brand as everyone’s favorite hangout in the Charlotte area.”
Currently, there are more than 425 corporate and franchise Potbelly shops in the United States and abroad. The brand plans to continue franchise growth throughout the balance of 2018 and into 2019. The Potbelly franchise business looks for experienced multi-unit operators who have the drive to grow a great business opportunity.
