Subway Commits to 10,000-Plus Store Openings

Subway announced last week that it’s continuing to expand its global presence, having signed more than 20 master franchise agreements in the past three years. The agreements have resulted in more than 10,000 future restaurant commitments and have contributed to over 40% of the brand’s new restaurant openings in 2024.

This year, Subway signed seven of the 20 master franchise agreements, which mark its entry into Paraguay and Mongolia and expand its presence across France, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Belgium, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Brazil, El Salvador and Guatemala.

Overall, the brand is on track to more than double the number of new restaurant openings in 2024, compared to 2019 (pre-COVID), the release says.

“Subway’s global growth strategy of partnering with well-resourced, experienced multiunit operators is proving to be successful,” says Mike Kehoe, global chief development officer at Subway. “By working with the right partners, we are making significant strides in modernizing our brand image with both new and remodeled restaurants, improving our overall guest experience, and growing digital sales.”

Subway also remains focused on growing its nontraditional business, which accounts for about one quarter of its global footprint. This includes signing new and expanded development agreements with brands like Love’s Travel Stops, and strengthening long-term retail relationships with companies such as Walmart and Aramark. Subway also aims to grow its presence in airports, as well as on college and hospital campuses.

Subway currently has nearly 37,000 restaurants across more than 100 countries and territories. Last year, the brand made plans to install deli meat slicers at 20,000 restaurants to offer freshly sliced meats in the U.S.