Building a Potbelly Dynasty: An Interview with Hampden Keil, COO of The Keil Group

You should learn something new every day. Those words come from a new Potbelly franchisee, Hampden Keil, who started a multi-unit franchise with his father, Bryant Keil, the founder of Potbelly. Join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as we hear Hampden talk about his experience and how he and his dad are creating a Potbelly dynasty, starting with 13 restaurants with plans to add 15 more.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, I interview Hampden Keil, COO of the Keil Group, LLC, to discuss his journey into the restaurant industry and his experience in building a Potbelly Sandwich Works multi-unit franchise business alongside, Bryant Keil, his father. Keil talks about his background in journalism, his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, and the valuable lessons he learned working at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. The conversation delves into the Keil Group's ambitious plans to expand their footprint by adding new Potbelly units to their existing 13, the importance of operational systems, and the evolving dynamics of family-run businesses. Keil also offers insights into the challenges of hiring and training staff, the significance of having a strong support system, and the advantages of being a Potbelly franchisee.

Topics discussed include:

1. Keil’s Early Career & Education

A. Experiences as a Journalist

B. Experiences at Lettuce Entertain You

C. Experiences at Joe's Brewery

D. Experiences at the Keil Group

2. The Potbelly Brand & Legacy

A. Founding and Evolution of Potbelly

B. Unique Franchising Model and Operations

C. Benefits of Checklists and Operational Standards

D. Advantages of becoming a Potbelly Franchisee

3. Working with Family

A. Definite division of roles: Hampden handles operations; Bryant focuses on

growth and development.

B. Benefits of complementary working styles (realistic vs. creative).

C. Benefits of daily catch-up calls that blend business and personal

conversation.

4. Advantages of Becoming a Franchisee

A. Quality product and brand identity.

B. Strong corporate support and operational guidance.

C. Opportunity for personal and professional support.

5. Advice for Aspiring Franchisees and Students

A. Be prepared for the shift from floor operations to oversight.

B. Confidence grows with experience.

C. Constant learning and listening to experienced team members are key.

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This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.