Franchising

Potbelly signs deal to add 10 shops in Central Florida

Photo: Potbelly

August 20, 2026

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Chicago-based-Potbelly Sandwich Works has signed a development agreement with veteran franchisee BD Patel and his nephews, Bhavesh and Mihir Patel, to open 10 shops across Central Florida.

The Patel family plans to start with high-visibility trade areas in Northeast Orlando and nearby communities, with additional development planned for Gainesville. Longer term, the group intends to expand into residential neighborhoods, business districts and university communities throughout the region.

BD Patel has more than 30 years of franchise experience, having developed and operated units for brands including Dunkin', Quiznos and Mooyah Burgers. His background includes franchise development leadership, multi-unit ownership and service on franchise advisory councils.

His nephews represent the next generation of the family's business. Bhavesh Patel has spent years in operational leadership helping scale the family's convenience store business, while Mihir Patel moved from a career in information technology into hospitality through ownership of a franchised hotel.

"We were looking for a brand with long-term growth potential, but it also had to be one we genuinely believed in," BD Patel said in a company press. "Our family has enjoyed Potbelly for years, and as we evaluated the business, we recognized the strength of the brand, its proven operating model and the opportunity to grow alongside thriving communities."

Bhavesh Patel said his connection to the brand dates to his time at the University of Cincinnati, where he and his wife were regular Potbelly customers before the family pursued franchise ownership.

Jennifer Durham, Potbelly's senior vice president of franchising and development, said the Patels' combined experience in franchise leadership, hospitality and business ownership made them a strong fit for the brand's growth plans in the region.

"They're approaching development with a community-first mindset that reflects the Potbelly brand, and we're looking forward to supporting them as they introduce Potbelly to more neighborhoods throughout Central Florida," Durham said.

The agreement adds to Potbelly's expansion across Florida, where the company has more than 10 shops open and more than 54 additional locations planned under existing development agreements. The company has also outlined future growth in Tampa, Sarasota-Bradenton, Fort Myers-Naples, Broward County, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Panama City Beach.

Founded in Chicago in 1977, Potbelly operates more than 470 shops nationwide and is working toward its 500th location as it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027. The company has been recognized on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 list, Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers list and Yelp's Fastest Growing Brands ranking, among other honors.