Firehouse Subs: Extinguishing Hunger with Heroic Sandwiches
How The Firehouse Subs Started
The Firehouse Subs story began in 1994 in Jacksonville, Florida, when brothers and former firefighters Chris and Robin Sorensen combined their love for hearty food with their commitment to public service. Inspired by their firefighting heritage, they opened the first Firehouse Subs restaurant, serving oversized, premium sandwiches with a unique theme. The concept quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to its delicious offerings and community-focused approach.
The Firehouse Subs Expansion
From that single location, Firehouse Subs rapidly expanded, fueled by its distinctive flavors and strong community ties. The brand’s signature steamed subs, packed with high-quality meats and cheeses, set it apart from competitors. With a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional service, Firehouse Subs grew into a nationwide favorite. Today, with over 1,200 locations across the United States and abroad, Firehouse Subs continues to win hearts and appetites everywhere.
The Firehouse Fun Facts
- Firehouse Subs restaurants are decorated with authentic firefighting gear and memorabilia, creating an immersive dining experience that honors its founders’ firefighting roots.
- The chain’s signature subs are prepared using a unique steaming method, which enhances the flavors of the meats and cheeses, making every bite rich and savory.
- Firehouse Subs offers a popular “Hot Sauce of the Month” program, featuring a rotating selection of hot sauces from around the world for customers to enjoy.
The Road Ahead
As Firehouse Subs continues to grow, its commitment to quality, community, and public safety remains unwavering. The journey from a single sandwich shop to a nationally recognized brand underscores the power of passion, dedication, and a strong mission. Looking forward, Firehouse Subs aims to further its reach, bringing its hearty subs and community spirit to more locations. With a foundation built on excellent food and a heroic ethos, Firehouse Subs is poised to continue extinguishing hunger and supporting communities for years to come.
Firehouse Subs Franchise Numbers
Downpayment
- New Location:
- Initial investment ranges from $189,574 to $997,320, including franchise fees and initial setup costs.
- Existing Location:
- Generally between $300,000 and $700,000, depending on the performance and location of the restaurant.
- Multiple Locations:
- Discounts may be available for additional restaurants, with costs ranging from $180,000 to $900,000 per location after the first.
Financing
- Royalty:
- Ongoing royalty fee of 6% of gross revenue.
- Rent:
- Rent costs vary, typically between $3,000 and $10,000 per month, depending on the location and size of the restaurant.
- Lease Fee:
- No specific lease fee; leasing costs are included in the overall initial investment.
Ongoing Fees
- Marketing fee: 3% of gross revenue.
- Additional costs for local marketing, supplies, and staff salaries.
Average Cost/Revenue
- Initial Investment:
- $189,574 to $997,320 for a new restaurant.
- Average Annual Revenue:
- Typically ranges from $600,000 to $1,000,000.
- EBITDA:
- Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization can range from 10% to 15% of revenue, resulting in approximately $60,000 to $150,000 per year.
Rating
- Investment to Income Projections:
- ⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars) due to variable initial investment and moderate profitability potential, with ongoing fees impacting margins.
- The founders, Chris and Robin Sorensen, come from a long line of firefighters, and their dedication to public service is a core part of the brand’s identity.
- Firehouse Subs has a charitable arm, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, which provides funding and resources to first responders and public safety organizations across the country.
- The Firehouse Subs menu includes the “Fully Involved” option, which means any sub can be topped with all the standard fixings: mayo, deli mustard, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a kosher dill pickle on the side.
Firehouse Subs: A Viable Venture for New Franchisees
Summary
Firehouse Subs has established itself as a trusted brand in the fast-casual restaurant industry, known for its hearty subs and commitment to public safety. With over 1,200 locations across the United States, the franchise has a robust presence and a proven business model that continues to thrive.
Viability as a New Business Venture
For potential franchisees, Firehouse Subs offers several advantages:
- Brand Recognition: Firehouse Subs benefits from strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base, making it easier to attract customers and drive sales.
- Diverse Revenue Streams: The franchise offers various products beyond subs, such as salads, sides, and catering services, providing diverse revenue streams.
- Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support from the franchisor, including marketing, operations, and product development assistance.
- Growing Industry: The fast-casual restaurant industry continues to grow, with increasing demand for high-quality and quick dining options.
- Expansion Opportunities: There are still available territories and locations for new franchises, particularly in suburban and urban areas with high population densities.
Available Locations and Territories
Firehouse Subs continues to expand, with new franchise opportunities available in various regions. Prospective franchisees can explore available territories by contacting the Firehouse Subs franchising team or visiting their website to view current openings. Urban centers and high-traffic suburban areas are prime targets for new locations, offering significant growth potential.
Star Rating
Considering the comprehensive support, brand strength, diverse product offerings, and the growth of the industry, Firehouse Subs scores high in terms of viability for new franchisees:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
With a 5-star rating, Firehouse Subs represents a promising opportunity for those looking to invest in a franchise with a proven track record and robust support system.
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