Restaurant chains from Starbucks Corp. to Shake Shack Inc. have reported slowing or falling traffic in recent quarters, as changing consumer behaviors catch up with them. Consumers are increasingly eating at home or the office to save money and time, particularly at lunch. People are also shopping more online, and making fewer trips to restaurants near malls.
Potbelly said nearly 60% of its business comes at lunch, and that it is looking at ways to attract more customers at other times. Potbelly competes in a crowded market.