Potbelly Sandwich Works Comes to West Chatham
Ernest Sanders
Published: March 12, 2008
Potbelly Sandwich Works Associates prepared delicious meals for hungry patrons.
Ernest Sanders
Located at 8300 South Stewart, the old Ryerson Steel plant, Potbelly Sandwich Works has catchy slogans like, “Open your senses to the perfect sandwich…You can’t buy love; Lunch on the other hand is totally doable…or just simply, the store’s name Potbelly Sandwich Works.”
You may ask yourself, how did this new and famous sandwich company carve out their niche in the global sandwich market? After reading their history and speaking with Mark Kurczak, District Manager for southern metropolitan areas of Chicago, you would understand the uniqueness of their success. According to Kurczak, “Potbelly Sandwich Works was incubated from the owners’ antique store, when they decided to sell sandwiches to their customers.”
Amber Spencer (L) and her grandfather Julius Spencer (R) enjoy their "made fresh" hot meals.
Ernest Sanders
It’s no wonder whenever you visit their restaurants, there seems to be an old fashion sense of peace and tranquility that automatically comes with your meal. Well, not only does Potbelly have a unique story regarding its start, but Kurczak began to share how two of his family members (father and cousin) worked at the old Ryerson Steel Mill where this new Potbelly Sandwich Works is now located. Kurczak said it was really special and surreal to work in the same location where his family members worked for 30 years prior to its closing.
When asked how Potbelly opens so many stores in a short period of time, especially in today’s economic climate, Kurczak responded, "we have a very strong marketing team who finds perfect sites for our stores to be located. We also have a ‘Dream Team’, comprised of other local store associates who come and help develop new associates. It is very encouraging to have great talent both locally and remotely. And we are always looking for more.”
Justin Richardson, of the Beloved Community, celebrates with Potbelly Associates at their Grand Opening.
Chase Woodward
Not only does Potbelly have “made to order” sandwiches and salads, but also sells soups, side orders, sweet delights, shakes and smoothies, and a host of other beverages, but they also actively participate with the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation and other local charities and organizations.
On Wednesday, April 2, 2008, between the hours of 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, this new site will host a free sandwich day. They will be collecting donations for the Maria Shelter (ph. 773.994.5350), a nearby homeless shelter for women.
Thank you Potbelly Sandwich Works for coming to the West Chatham neighborhood, right here in the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation's service area.
Posted in Business, Housing, Economic Development