Published: May 2, 2023
by Gabrielle Pickard-Whitehead
In Small Business News
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Subway, one of the world’s largest restaurant brands, has reported its ninth consecutive quarter of positive sales, marking an important milestone in its multi-year transformation journey. In the first quarter of 2023, the brand witnessed double-digit growth in global restaurant same-store sales, propelled by menu innovation, restaurant modernization, and enhancements to the overall guest experience, including its digital offerings.
According to the Q1 Global Results compared to the same period in 2022, Subway experienced a 12.1% increase in same-store sales and an 11.4% increase in digital sales. In North America, the company saw an 11.7% increase in same-store sales, with the top 75% of locations (approximately 17,000 restaurants) up 17.9%, and the top 50% of locations (about 11,500 restaurants) up 24.4%. Furthermore, digital sales in North America rose by 21.2%.
John Chidsey, CEO of Subway, said, “Our continued impressive performance demonstrates that our efforts to build a better Subway and win back the hearts and minds of sandwich lovers around the globe is working.” The brand also reported its highest weekly average unit volume (AUV) in the U.S. since 2010 at the start of the second quarter in April.
For small business owners and entrepreneurs, especially those in the food service industry, Subway’s strong sales momentum may serve as a case study for strategic growth and business transformation. The company’s focus on menu innovation, restaurant modernization, and enhanced guest experiences, particularly through digital channels, seems to have paid off.
Moreover, Subway’s success in boosting digital sales — which have more than quadrupled globally since the start of 2019 — offers a clear example of how businesses can leverage technology to improve customer experience and drive growth. Dedicated digital promotions in the U.S. have led to a surge of guests using the Subway app, strengthening the brand’s value proposition and potentially increasing profitability for many franchisees.
As Subway continues to build momentum, the company plans to introduce new menu items and digital enhancements in key markets globally in the coming months. The brand is also committed to smart growth to increase franchisee profitability and safeguard its market position. This includes strategically opening new traditional and non-traditional locations.
In North America, Subway recently announced five new multi-unit owner agreements, demonstrating the confidence that both new and existing operators have in the brand’s future. Internationally, Subway is partnering with established operators with specific market expertise to strategically expand its global footprint.
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Gabrielle Pickard-Whitehead is a professional freelance writer and journalist based in the United Kingdom. Since 2006, Gabrielle has been writing articles, blogs and news pieces for a diverse range of publications and sites. You can read “Gabrielle’s blog here.”.
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Subway Records Double-Digit Global Sales Growth, Indicating Positive Momentum
Subway restaurants, one of the world’s most recognizable franchise businesses, have recorded double-digit sales growth in its global markets, indicating positive momentum as it continues its international expansion.
According to a report recently released by the Subway Franchise Owners Association, the chain saw a 12.4 percent increase in sales in 2017 compared to the previous year. This represents the fastest rate of growth in the past decade. The report also found that 10 percent of the chain’s outlets showed an increase of more than 20 percent in their sales figures.
The surge in sales can be attributed, in part, to the chain’s aggressive international expansion. The total number of Subway restaurants in the world has grown steadily since 2013, with over 33,000 outlets in 90 countries across six continents.
The news of Subway’s double-digit sales growth could be seen as good news for franchise owners, who have benefited from the chain’s global expansion. As the chain continues to grow, the profits for individual franchise owners could potentially increase, leading to a more profitable business model.
The company has also sought to revitalize its image by updating its menu offerings, which now include healthier options such as veggie patty subs, turkey-based subs and fresh-cut produce. This update has helped appeal to a wider base of customers.
Subway’s double-digit sales growth indicates a positive momentum for the chain, and points to a more lucrative future as more customers flock to the popular subb sandwich chain. With its continued success and growth, Subway looks set to remain a popular choice among consumers.
