If you’re considering entering the food industry, sandwich franchises are a popular choice, offering a mix of brand recognition and customer loyalty. But with so many options available, how do you know which is the right choice? And, more importantly, is a sandwich shop the right investment for you? Take a look at some of the top sandwich franchises, their profit potential and appeal, and a fast casual alternative like Teriyaki Madness.

Exploring Sandwich Franchise Options

Sandwiches are a popular choice for customers because they’re quick, customizable, and relatively healthy. The appeal lies in their versatility; whether someone is looking for a light lunch or a hearty meal, sandwich shops can cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

The ability to personalize each sandwich with fresh ingredients allows customers to enjoy a meal tailored to their specific preferences. The convenience of grab-and-go options also makes sandwich shops a favorite for busy people seeking a fast yet satisfying meal.

When you think of sandwich franchises, a few names probably come to mind immediately. These brands have built strong reputations and expansive networks, making them prime considerations for any potential franchisee.

• Subway: Likely the first brand that comes to mind, Subway is the largest sub franchise in the world, with over 36,000 locations globally. Their simple menu and customizable options have made it a favorite among fast food lovers. The brand’s extensive reach and strong marketing efforts contribute to its dominance in the sandwich market. The Subway franchise cost can range from $229,050 to $522,300, with ongoing royalties to consider.
• Jimmy John’s: Jimmy John’s focuses on fresh ingredients and speed of service. With a loyal customer base and a relatively simple operation model, it’s a strong contender in the sandwich franchise space. Today, Jimmy John’s has grown into a well-known franchise. As of 2023, there were over 2,600 locations across the U.S., down by 3% over three years, according to Entrepreneur.
• Jersey Mike’s: This sub franchise has been growing rapidly in recent years, offering a unique experience with its freshly sliced subs made to order. Jersey Mike’s emphasis on quality and community involvement has made it a popular choice for franchisees.
• Which Wich: With a focus on customer customization, Which Wich offers a unique ordering experience where customers mark their choices on a pre-printed menu bag. This innovative approach, combined with a wide variety of options, sets it apart from other sandwich chains.

Pros and Cons of Sandwich Franchises

Before diving into a sandwich business investment, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.

Pros:

• Low startup costs: Compared to full-service restaurants, sandwich franchises typically require a smaller initial investment, making them accessible to a wider range of investors.
• Brand recognition: Established sandwich businesses come with strong brand recognition, which can drive customer traffic to your location without the need for extensive marketing efforts.
  Operational simplicity: The menu is generally straightforward, and the operational processes are less complex than those of a full-service restaurant, allowing for easier management and training.

Cons:

• Market saturation: Some sandwich businesses are so widespread that it can be challenging to find a location that isn’t already served by a competitor. This can limit your potential market share and profitability.
• Limited menu: While the simplicity of a sandwich shop is a plus in terms of operations, it can also be a drawback. With a limited menu, you may struggle to attract customers looking for more variety.
• High competition: The sandwich industry is crowded with numerous brands vying for customer attention, making it difficult to stand out unless your franchise offers something truly unique.

Questions to Ask Franchisors

Once you’ve narrowed your choices to find some of the best investment options for you, it’s time to talk with franchisors. Here are some crucial questions to help you evaluate your choices:
What is the franchisor’s brand reputation and history of success? Understanding the brand’s track record can give you insight into its stability and growth potential. A franchisor with a strong, positive reputation will likely offer a more secure investment.

What are the financial requirements and projections? Discuss the initial investment and ongoing fees. Some franchisors will provide historical financial performances; while this isn’t a guarantee of earnings, you can get an idea of how much you could potentially make.

What kind of training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide? Quality training and support set franchises apart from one another. Ask about the specifics of the training program, including duration, content, and whether there’s ongoing support for marketing, operations, and other areas of the business.
What territories are available? Cities with large and diverse customer bases are where sales are highest. Ask the franchisor how territories are determined, such as population density or geographic areas. Make sure you have a sufficient market size to help you thrive.

How does the franchisor assist with site selection and lease negotiations? The location of your business is important. Find out if the franchisor helps find the ideal location and whether they help during lease negotiations.

Can you talk with current franchisees? Talking to current franchisees can provide invaluable insights into the franchisor’s support system, day-to-day operations, and overall franchisee satisfaction. One key question to ask them is, if they could do it all again, knowing what they know now, would they?

Teriyaki Madness: A Delicious Alternative to Sandwiches

If, after considering the pros and cons, you decide that a sandwich business may not be the best fit for your goals, there’s an alternative fast casual option that combines all the benefits while also addressing the potential drawbacks.

Teriyaki Madness offers a distinctive take on Seattle-style Japanese teriyaki bowls that appeal to a broad range of diners looking for something flavorful, convenient, and affordable. With over 150 locations currently in operation, we have no plans to slow down. We’re looking for passionate, motivated entrepreneurs to join the Madness and bring our special flavor to their communities.

Learn more about why Teriyaki Madness presents such an exciting franchise opportunity. Download our franchise report today.