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Within the panorama of fast-casual eating, sandwich franchises supply entrepreneurs a savory alternative to carve out a distinct segment in a thriving market. From basic deli fare to progressive creations, these franchises cater to numerous tastes and preferences, serving up satisfying meals between two slices of bread.
Right here, discover the highest sandwich franchises, in response to the 2024 Franchise 500 Rating, recognized for his or her high quality substances, environment friendly service and buyer satisfaction. From neighborhood delis to nationwide chains, these franchises have earned their repute as go-to locations for sandwich lovers, delivering scrumptious flavors and handy eating experiences.
Get able to sink your tooth into the perfect of the sandwich world as we spotlight the main franchises that proceed to redefine the artwork of sandwich-making and go away prospects wanting extra.
1. Jersey Mike’s Subs
- Based: 1956
- Franchising since: 1987
- Total rank: 2
- Variety of models: 2,861
- Change in models: +45% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $204,000-$1,300,000
- Management: Peter Cancro, Founder/CEO
- Guardian firm: Jersey Mike’s Franchise Methods Inc.
Based in 1956 as Mike’s Subs in Level Nice, New Jersey, the sandwich store capitalized on the rising development of submarine sandwiches within the Nineteen Fifties. By specializing in glorious customer support and cultivating an area really feel, the mom-and-pop store gained reputation, particularly in the course of the summer time months on the Jersey Shore. In 1971, 17-year-old worker Pete Cancro purchased the enterprise and expanded it by opening extra shops. In 1987, Cancro began franchising and renamed the enterprise Jersey Mike’s Subs to take care of its authenticity. Immediately, with Cancro as CEO, Jersey Mike’s Subs has roughly 2,800 franchise areas.
2. Arby’s
- Based: 1964
- Franchising since: 1965
- Total rank: 9
- Variety of models: 3,613
- Change in models: +2.1% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $645,000-$2,500,000
- Management: David Graves, Model President
- Guardian firm: Encourage Manufacturers
Beginning an Arby’s franchise affords quite a few advantages and benefits, together with wide-reaching model recognition with over 3,600 eating places throughout the U.S. Arby’s in style roast beef sandwiches, hamburgers and curly fries make it a most popular alternative for a lot of prospects. The model is positioned for fulfillment, being one of many high 10 restaurant manufacturers within the U.S. and Canada. Moreover, Arby’s supplies versatile retailer layouts and varied funding choices to go well with completely different franchisees’ wants. Franchise homeowners obtain help from working methods and growth groups, making it a beautiful choice for brand new enterprise homeowners or entrepreneurs with restricted administration expertise.
3. McAlister’s Deli
- Based: 1989
- Franchising since: 1994
- Total rank: 47
- Variety of models: 550
- Change in models: +12% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $1,100,000-$2,500,000
- Management: Mike Freeman, Chief Model Officer
- Guardian firm: GoTo Meals
McAlister’s Deli prides itself on providing friends extra than simply hearty sandwiches and scrumptious sides. Rooted in small-town allure, they consider within the energy of nice meals, heat smiles and Southern hospitality. With a give attention to real friendliness and a welcoming environment, McAlister’s goals to make each visitor really feel at residence. Opening a McAlister’s Deli franchise permits people to be a part of this particular custom of hospitality and group.
4. Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings
- Based: 1986
- Franchising since: 1991
- Total rank: 76
- Variety of models: 792
- Change in models: +23.2% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $202,000-$936,000
- Management: Candra Alisiswanto, EVP
- Guardian firm: Gosh Enterprises Inc.
Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings, established in 1986 and franchised in 1991, has expanded to over 700 areas, recognized for its 100% USDA alternative steak, easy menu and distinctive customer support. With plans to achieve 3,000 shops, it seeks franchisees to gas its progress. Charleys Philly Steaks affords a examined enterprise mannequin, trendy restaurant designs, complete coaching and an progressive menu centered round genuine Philly steaks. For entrepreneurs in search of a QSR franchise with a singular and beloved consolation meals providing, Charleys Philly Steaks presents an engaging alternative.
5. Firehouse Subs
- Based: 1994
- Franchising since: 1995
- Total rank: 79
- Variety of models: 1,310
- Change in models: +9.1% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $343,000-$1,300,000
- Management: Mike Hancock, President
- Guardian firm: Restaurant Manufacturers Int’l. (RBI)
Firehouse Subs combines meals and group service, with a portion of proceeds supporting the Firehouse Subs Public Security Basis. With over 1,200 U.S. franchises, every adorned with firefighter gear, Firehouse Subs affords steamed meats and cheeses on toasted sub rolls. Franchisees are inspired to excel, prioritize group service and revel in scrumptious subs. As a turnkey franchise, Firehouse Subs affords progress potential and group impression, supported by ongoing help from space representatives and promoting groups.
6. Jimmy John’s
- Based: 1983
- Franchising since: 1993
- Total rank: 90
- Variety of models: 2,644
- Change in models: -3.0% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $361,000-$674,000
- Management: James North, Model President
- Guardian firm: Encourage Manufacturers
Jimmy John’s Gourmand Sandwiches, based in 1983 and franchising since 1993, is now a part of the Encourage Manufacturers chain with practically 2,700 areas nationwide. Recognized for utilizing contemporary substances and baked bread, Jimmy John’s goals to ship glorious sandwiches to its prospects. Opening a franchise affords entry to help in varied areas equivalent to advertising and marketing, building and actual property, together with complete coaching overlaying retailer administration and monetary expertise. Franchisees additionally obtain ongoing help from the advertising and marketing and subject gross sales groups.
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7. Schlotzsky’s
- Based: 1971
- Franchising since: 1976
- Total rank: 162
- Variety of models: 312
- Change in models: -4.0% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $634,000-$1,900,000
- Management: Donna Spangler-Josephson, Chief Model Officer
- Guardian firm: GoTo Meals
Schlotzsky’s, based in 1971 in Austin, Texas, affords distinctive and freshly baked sandwiches and pizzas that entice loyal prospects. The model prides itself on being quick, handy and constant, with objects like The Authentic sandwich making it well-known. It continues to evolve with daring new menu objects and a contemporary look, aiming to enchantment to a brand new technology of diners.
8. Subway
- Based: 1965
- Franchising since: 1974
- Total rank: 199
- Variety of models: 36,455
- Change in models: -3% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $239,000-$537,000
- Management: John Chidsey, CEO
- Guardian firm: Physician’s Associates LLC
Subway is a famend franchise restaurant chain recognized for its contemporary and inexpensive subs. Its mission revolves round serving contemporary and customizable meals whereas prioritizing buyer satisfaction. Based in 1965 by Fred DeLuca, Subway has grown into one of many world’s hottest restaurant manufacturers, with practically 37,000 shops in additional than 100 international locations. Subway’s historical past traces again to a $1,000 funding from a household pal, resulting in the opening of the primary sandwich store in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Immediately, Subway continues to increase with over 20,000 franchisees contributing to its success. The model incorporates cutting-edge expertise and affords non-traditional areas in gasoline stations and comfort shops to cater to buyer wants.
9. Port of Subs
- Based: 1972
- Franchising since: 1985
- Total rank: 258
- Variety of models: 126
- Change in models: -2.0% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $316,000-$559,000
- Management: Healey Mendicino, President
- Guardian firm: POS Holdings LLC
Port of Subs originated in 1972 because the Sub Store in Sparks, Nevada, based by two brothers. In 1975, John Larsen bought it and renamed it Port of Subs, ultimately increasing to 10 fully-owned models. Franchising started in 1985, resulting in 130 areas throughout the USA. Port of Subs affords franchise alternatives with a give attention to high quality meats, contemporary bread, spices and cheeses, serving sandwiches, salads, wraps and dressings. Opening a Port of Subs franchise affords advantages equivalent to faster setup, a longtime buyer base, decreased threat, and entry to the corporate’s gross sales fashions, identify recognition and vendor relationships.
10. Potbelly Sandwich Works
- Based: 1977
- Franchising since: 2009
- Total rank: 324
- Variety of models: 427
- Change in models: -7.0% over 3 years
- Preliminary funding: $595,000-$955,000
- Management: Bob Wright, CEO
- Guardian firm: N/A
Potbelly Sandwich Works is a beloved American sandwich chain famend for its cozy environment and scrumptious toasted sandwiches. Based in 1977 by Peter Hastings in Chicago, Potbelly began as an vintage store with a small sandwich counter, however rapidly gained reputation for its mouthwatering sandwiches made with contemporary substances and distinctive combos. Over time, Potbelly has expanded its menu to incorporate salads, soups and desserts, nevertheless it’s their signature sandwiches just like the “Wreck” and “A Wreck” that proceed to steal the present. With its laid-back vibe, pleasant employees and dedication to high quality, Potbelly has grow to be a favourite spot for hungry diners in search of consolation meals with a twist.
