Potbelly Corp. has finalized a 27-shop agreement in Maryland with the company's founder Bryant Keil and his son, Hampden. The agreement grants the duo exclusive territory rights in seven Maryland counties — Washington, Frederick, Montgomery, Prince George, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's — to develop 15 Potbelly shops in the next eight years. Additionally, the company will refranchise 12 existing restaurant locations as part of the transaction.

"The Potbelly brand we know and love was shaped by Bryant's leadership," Bob Wright, president and CEO of Potbelly, said in a company press release. "He has a keen understanding of the Potbelly vision and deep appreciation for the brand and what sets us apart. He oversaw years of incredible expansion for our brand, and we look forward to him accelerating our growth momentum in Maryland as we continue to execute our strategic franchise and growth strategy across the U.S. Along with refranchising several of our existing shops, this agreement will extend Potbelly's presence in central and southern regions of the state over the next decade, giving residents and visitors more access to our delicious food."

Bryant Keil first purchased Potbelly in 1996, when it was a single antique shop in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. Its owners served sandwiches to their customers, but Keli transformed the shop into the company it is today. Focusing on serving delicious food in an environment prioritizing good vibes, he expanded to 250 locations by 2008, and there are now over 425 locations, according to the release.

"For nearly three decades, I've believed in the strength of the Potbelly brand and the company's growth potential," Bryant Keil said in the release. "I'm thrilled for this new partnership and the opportunity to open and operate additional shops on the East Coast. I'm especially excited to partner with my son Hampden to develop the market and our family business. He grew up in Potbelly and has significant restaurant experience. We are both very excited to join the system."

Potbelly hopes to open 2,000 shops over the next 10 years with at least 85% of them being franchised.

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