Subway has recently made headlines due to its agreement to be acquired by private equity firm Roark Capital for over $9 billion, marking the end of six decades of family ownership. This significant development has drawn attention to the changing landscape of the popular restaurant franchise. Additionally, reports of high charges for sandwiches, such as Letitia Bishop being billed $1,021.50 for three sandwiches, have sparked public interest and raised questions about pricing practices within the Subway chain. Furthermore, franchisees expressing concerns about lease agreements and potential closures have added to Subway's recent media coverage.
Subway is an American privately held restaurant franchise known for its submarine sandwiches (subs) and salads. With over 41,000 locations in more than 100 countries, Subway has established itself as one of the largest and fastest-growing franchises globally. Founded in 1965 by Fred DeLuca and Peter Buck, Subway has become a prominent player in the fast-food industry, offering a variety of customizable sandwich options to cater to diverse tastes. Despite its success, Subway has faced challenges in recent years, including declining sales and increased competition in the fast-casual dining sector. The brand's decision to transition to new ownership under Roark Capital reflects a strategic move to navigate these evolving market dynamics.