Potbelly Sandwich Shop has announced that Wilmington-based franchisees Brent and Michele Brouse will open their Port City location at 2515 S. 17th St., Unit A on Monday, July 6.

Brent and Michele Brouse anticipate that Potbelly, which is based in Chicago, will bring more than 20 jobs to the area.
 
“We’re thrilled to open our Potbelly location for our neighbors here in Wilmington to enjoy,” said Brent Brouse. “We’ve been familiar with the Potbelly brand for years, so it’s a great feeling to be able to offer our variety of delicious sandwiches, soups and more to the community.”
 
Potbelly specializes in toasty sandwiches, signature salads, soups, macaroni and cheese and hand-dipped shakes, all customizable per the customer’s request. The Wilmington location has indoor and outdoor seating available for guests to enjoy meals safely.
 
“Now more than ever, individuals in the area are looking to venture to different places and try new restaurants – safely, of course,” Brent Brouse said.
 
The Brouses said Potbelly will follow CDC guidelines and be taking extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of its customers and employees. Precautions include requiring employees to wear face masks and gloves at all times, regular sanitation of the POS systems and phone screens, cleaning tables after each use, new floor decals that show customers how to social distance in line, and plexiglass barriers at the cashier’s station.
 
The Potbelly Wilmington location is part of a multi-unit franchise agreement for the development of 13 new shops across North and South Carolina. The agreement includes opening shops along the eastern section of the states, as well as in nearby inland markets. 
 
“Brent and Michele are the perfect fit to bring Potbelly to Wilmington," said Peter Ortiz, vice president of franchise development at Potbelly. “With their deep understanding and connection to the community, I can think of no one better to introduce the brand. We’re excited to see how the Brouses make Potbelly a local favorite in the coming months.” 
 
The new Potbelly location will be offering an online promotion kicking off July 6, where the first 100 customers to order via the online app will receive one free sandwich for their next visit. A grand opening event is tentative for the fall, pending the CDC’s recommendations on mid-size gatherings.
 
Delivery and contactless curbside pickup are available through Potbelly.com or the Potbelly app and all deliveries include tamper-proof stickers to ensure safety.

Hours of operation are 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m., with times subject to change.

The Wilmington location is also expected to begin offering breakfast in the coming months.
 
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