Buona, the Berwyn-based chain known for its Italian beef sandwiches, said it will hire 500 full-time and part-time workers across its locations as it expands its business and enhances cleaning inside its restaurants.

In addition to adding positions at its 24 current locations, the company plans to hire 200 employees for locations it will open in Countryside and Lakemoor later this year. Buona has seen a 50% increase in drive-thru sales and larger gains in curbside and delivery sales, said Joe Buonavolanto Jr., director of people. He declined to provide details on company revenues.