By Business & Finance SUBWAY plans to increase the number of stores in Ireland by more than 180 over the next six years, creating more up to 1,800 new jobs. This follows recent store openings and the total store count in the Republic of Ireland is 117 with 16 new store openings in the Republic of Ireland in 2013.
Currently there are over 1,700 SUBWAY stores in the UK and Ireland. All stores are independently owned and operated by franchisees. Last year saw the brand reach a milestone of 150 store openings in the UK and Ireland with the introduction of new partnerships with organisations including Welcome Break and Applegreen.
Taking into account supply chain and employment, the SUBWAY’s total annual Gross Value Added contribution (GVA)is €37.4m and the stores are significant employers with 809 full time equivalent employees in Ireland already.
Mike Charest, assistant regional director for Europe said: “The UK and Irish markets have been fantastic success stories for the SUBWAY brand and we see opportunities for further growth as more and more consumers demand great tasting food at a value price-point. The introduction of a varied breakfast menu and longer opening hours have been instrumental in increasing store footfall.”
According to Charest: “In addition to our traditional store development we see new potential in settings such as universities, stations, convenience stores, hospitals, airports and petrol stations.”
Muriel O’Grady, representing SUBWAY in Ireland said: “We are a strong team of independent entrepreneurs working collectively to grow our business by providing excellent food, service and value. As well as the service we provide to customers, we are also supporting the economy wherever we can and in the past year alone SUBWAY used over 400,000 beef patties produced in Ireland and using 100% Irish beef sourced from certified quality assured farms. It’s something we are immensely proud of and ensures that we serve the communities in Ireland in more ways than one.”
