No one expected Pete’s Super Submarines to become the world’s largest fast-food chain when Fred DeLuca and Peter Buck opened their first restaurant in August 1965. Yet the past 50 years have seen the brand expand to 15,000 locations across 110 countries. And the landmarks just keep on coming for Subway: its latest opening in Scotland marks its 5,000th restaurant in Europe.
Located in The Centre, a shopping centre in Livingston, the new restaurant seats more than 50 customers and employs 15 members of staff. It is the 16th store to be opened by serial Subway franchisee Haj Atwal.
“It feels fantastic to have opened the 5,000th Subway store in Europe,” said Atwal. ” I started my career with the Subway brand over 15 years ago when I opened my first store with my brother Narinder in Edinburgh. Since then, we have gone on to open many more Subway stores individually and together, with the support of the brand.”
You could argue that Atwal’s achievements are testament to the importance of franchisors offering franchisees a generous level of support. Subway’s franchisees benefit from a network of regional development agents, business consultants and mentor franchisees who can offer their expertise on everything from design and construction to purchasing and advertising. “The Subway brand has an incredible support system for franchisees, which allows them to benefit from over 50 years of the brand’s experience,” said Justin Goes, regional director for Europe at Subway.
Commenting on the new opening, Goes added: “It is a fantastic achievement and reflects the strong entrepreneurial spirit of our franchisees who work hard in their local communities providing a great product and excellent customer service to all our customers.”
Perhaps something to consider the next time you munch on a meatball marinara sub? 
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
