Former Teen Employee Returns to Potbelly as Franchisee Decades Later, Growing Brand in Florida

Patrick Prendergast spent 14 years climbing the corporate ladder in sales, a career that demanded over 100 nights a year of travel. As his family grew and a personal health issue emerged, his priorities shifted, prompting him to seek a better work-life balance and explore entrepreneurship. 

Although he ventured into other independent businesses like a golf brand and a sports bra brand, investing with Potbelly proved to be the ideal fit for his franchise venture. Having previously worked for Potbelly, even working as an employee at the first location outside of Chicago, Prendergast had a deep belief in the brand. His decision to sign a multi-unit development agreement was a quick one made with confidence. Now, as he works to fulfill his seven-unit agreement, he is committed to building a business empire that prioritizes its people and community.

Prendergast took the time to chat with 1851 Franchise to discuss all of this and more. Here’s what he had to say:

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?

Patrick Prendergast: My career began by climbing the corporate ladder in sales, which involved traveling over 100 nights a year. As my family grew and my priorities shifted — especially when my now five-year-old started noticing my frequent absences — I knew changes were needed. A significant turning point was when I lost hearing in my right ear after getting a vaccine. This was aggravated by cold, windy weather, so we were prompted to move from Chicago to Florida for a more comfortable environment. This journey also solidified my decision to pursue an entrepreneurial path.

I'm also someone who believes in taking the leap; I'd rather try and fail than never attempt to pursue an idea at all.

1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Prendergast: Before franchising, I spent 14 years in corporate sales, managing relationships and traveling extensively. The desire for a better work-life balance, particularly as my family expanded, and a personal health issue, compelled me to leave the corporate world and explore entrepreneurial ventures. I started a golf brand and a sports bra brand during this exploration.

Franchising was always an interest, but it had to be the right brand — something I could genuinely support and believe in, not just another typical food service option. My decision to franchise with Potbelly was largely influenced by my prior positive experience as an employee there during high school, where I even helped open their first location outside of Chicago. 

When I discovered Potbelly was franchising, it felt like the perfect fit and an easy decision, leading me to dive headfirst into the opportunity.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Prendergast: My initial perception of franchising was that it was a straightforward path to entrepreneurship. While it does offer a structured way to pursue a business with established brands, the reality is that it involves significant work beyond the initial investment and signing paperwork. Success is not guaranteed and relies heavily on dedication and intuition. 

What people should know is that franchisors are looking for the right candidate to represent their brand, not just someone with the financial means. It's crucial to understand the extensive steps involved in launching a franchise.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Prendergast: I chose Potbelly because I had a longstanding history and deep belief in the brand. I was an employee at Potbelly in high school, and I often reminisced about my time there during my corporate travels, missing the experience of making sandwiches and making people's day with great food. When I found out Potbelly was franchising, it felt like it was meant to be.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth? 

Prendergast: My immediate plan is to open our first Potbelly shop in September, as part of our seven-shop agreement. Within the next 12 months, I intend to introduce one or two more franchise concepts to the Jacksonville market. 

My long-term goal is to operate around 20 locations across multiple brands.

Beyond just business growth, I aim to be a significant local employer in Jacksonville. I also have a vision to support my employees by potentially investing in real estate to offer housing opportunities, helping them get on their feet. I believe that a business's success is deeply connected to its people; getting the right team excited about the vision and supporting them drives success. I want to be perceived as someone who cares about the local people and the community.

1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?

Prendergast: I want people to know that if I believe in something, whether it's a brand or a product, I will work tirelessly day in and day out to make it successful. I am fully committed and approach ventures with an "all-in" mindset, aiming to do things right and dive in head first. My philosophy is that I'd rather be the one who tried and failed than the one who never tried at all. 

Many people have great ideas but hesitate to take the entrepreneurial leap, which can not only change one's own life but also the lives of others. I am the one who will take that leap.

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?

Prendergast: My advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to find a balance between passion and practical business considerations. While passion is beneficial, avoid letting emotions overshadow the realities of what it takes to succeed in a particular business or market. It's important to remember that passion can develop over time, especially when you see the rewards of your own efforts and claim ownership over something you've brought to fruition.

ABOUT POTBELLY SANDWICH SHOP:

Potbelly Sandwich Shop is a neighborhood sandwich concept known for its warm, toasty sandwiches, hand-dipped shakes, fresh salads and welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1977 in Chicago, Potbelly has grown into a beloved brand with a loyal following and more than 400 locations across the United States. The Potbelly franchise opportunity offers entrepreneurs the chance to bring a proven fast-casual concept to their community, supported by a passionate leadership team, strong unit economics and a commitment to operational excellence.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Potbelly, visit www.potbellyfranchising.com.