When selecting the ideal location to launch a business, it’s crucial to consider demographics, accessibility, visibility, competition, and real estate costs. A prime site doesn't just boost visibility; it can significantly impact early sales, long-term success, and operational efficiency. That's why at Capriotti’s, we invest heavily in supporting our franchisees during site selection, offering expert guidance every step of the way.

Leading that charge on the East Coast is David Tunnicliffe, Director of Real Estate. With 10+ years of experience in both landlord and tenant representation, as well as a strong background in retail brokerage, David brings a strategic and practical mindset to the process. He joined Capriotti's after years of running his own brokerage firm, drawn by the opportunity to make a more profound impact with an iconic brand. "It was the right time, and it's been an honor to grow with the company over the last few years,” he states. When reviewing sites, Dave always asks himself, "Would I do this deal myself? If not, I share my concerns with the franchisees and ultimately let them decide, but I always make sure they can make an informed decision.”

What Makes a Great Capriotti's Site?

Capriotti's isn't your average sandwich shop; since 1976, we’ve remained dedicated to providing premium experiences and award-winning sandwiches. Our brand performs best in high-visibility, high-accessibility areas with strong daily traffic, and compatible co-tenants should surround our locations. Capriotti's customers value quality, and the real estate strategy reflects that. "We make sure we're reaching customers who are willing to pay a premium for the best sandwich out there," David states.

Ideal Site Characteristics:

Located near higher-end grocers, retailers, or restaurant co-tenants
Endcap or highly visible inline space (not buried behind anchors)
Visible and accessible, with strong parking

Ideal Demographics:

50,000+ population within a 3-mile radius
$75,000+ median household income
25,000+ vehicles per day (VPD) traffic counts

From Franchise Agreement to Store Opening: The Process

Capriotti's site selection support begins the moment a new franchisee is signed. David's team utilizes advanced analytics to identify ideal trade areas, then collaborates with top-tier local brokers, rather than residential agents, to find the best real estate options. Here's a step-by-step look at the process:

Market Mapping: Demographic and traffic analytics determine the most viable areas for development.
Broker Pairing: Franchisees are matched with experienced local commercial brokers who understand the market.
Site Tours: Within 2–3 weeks of signing, franchisees tour shortlisted locations with David's team.
Site Review: Each location is evaluated by the real estate team and senior leadership.
LOI and Lease Negotiation: Capriotti's supports the franchisee throughout negotiations to ensure favorable terms.
Construction Prep: Once a site is approved, the design and construction team is brought in to begin planning.

Throughout the entire process, David and his team establish themselves as a trusted resource for franchisees, available whenever they need it. “My biggest thing with franchisees is communication and availability,” he states. “We’re there as a resource for them and we’re here to support them in any way that we can.”

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

To entrepreneurs looking to start their own business, David emphasizes the importance of leaning into Capriotti's proven process. "Sometimes, franchisees want to open five minutes from home or work with a family friend who's a residential agent. But these choices can cost you," he says.

More than half of Capriotti's best deals are off-market, and those don't come from scrolling real estate listings. They come from brokers who know the landlords, the developers, and where the next big opportunity is hiding. "You need the right team on the ground," David stresses. "That's what unlocks the best sites."

He also warns against selecting "tweener" sites stuck between two strong retail zones. "We want front-and-center visibility," he explains. "Being tucked away means it takes much longer for stores to ramp up."

A Strategic Partner in Growth

Choosing the right site goes beyond just real estate; it's crucial for establishing a strong foundation for long-term success. Capriotti's takes this process seriously. Every potential location must receive approval from senior leadership, and David or a member of his team usually conducts an in-person visit to each site. The outcome? Locations that empower franchisees to succeed.

"We're here to support our franchisees in any way we can," says David. "If they use the resources we provide and ask the questions, we'll help them find a great location that delivers from day one."

Ready to find the perfect site and bring Capriotti’s to your community? Contact us and take the first step today.