Which Wich relaunches in Springfield

The franchisee behind Springfield’s Orange Leaf stores relaunched the Which Wich sandwich chain in the Queen City.

Curt and Sheri Bartell, who operate Orange Leaf at 1368 E. Republic Road and 1011 S. Glenstone Ave., on Feb. 19 opened a Which Wich franchise at 1920 E. Independence St. in the James River Towne Center.

“It’s so much like Orange Leaf, as it’s creative and original; that’s why we wanted to get into it,” Curt Bartell said.

The Bartells invested $350,000 to open the 25-employee, 1,800-square-foot franchise store. In the spring, the husband-and-wife business partners plan to invest at least another $10,000 into outdoor patio seating for 15-20 customers, in addition to the capacity of 45 inside.

Springfield Business Journal last year reported on the Bartells’ plans when they were seeking a space for Which Wich.

Which Wich has more than 430 stores in 40 states and 11 countries. Initial franchise fees are $30,000, and franchisees must have between $203,000 and $495,250 to start, according to company materials. Which Wich customers build their own sandwiches by checking off items on a paper bag.

The Independence Street Which Wich shop is one of two the Bartells plan to bring to Springfield.