ENTREPRENEUR – Sandwiches remain one of the most reliable segments in franchising — simple to operate, adaptable to changing tastes and always in demand. That staying power reflects on Entrepreneur‘s 2025 Franchise 500, where sandwich concepts once again ranked among the most competitive food categories.
From quick-service giants with decades of brand equity to fast-growing newcomers leaning into customization and health, these franchises continue to attract both loyal customers and ambitious owners. Here are the top sandwich brands leading the way.
1. Jersey Mike’s Subs
- Founded: 1956
- Franchising since: 1987
- Overall rank: 2
- Number of units: 2,861
- Change in units: +45% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $203,583 – $1,317,005
- Leadership: Charlie Morrison, CEO
- Parent company: Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems Inc.
Jersey Mike’s has built a cult-like following with its fresh-sliced meats, grilled subs and strong community presence. Founded in 1956 and franchising since 1987, the brand has grown to nearly 3,000 locations, posting a remarkable 45% unit increase in the past three years.
Private equity firm Blackstone acquired Jersey Mike’s for $8 billion late last year, a sign of strong investor confidence in the brand’s future growth. This acquisition provides Jersey Mike’s with even greater resources to expand its footprint, enhance digital ordering capabilities and innovate its menu.
2. Arby’s
Founded: 1964
Franchising since: 1965
Overall rank: 12
Number of units: 3,570
Change in units: +0.3% over 3 years
Initial investment: $644,950 – $2,451,000
Leadership: David Graves, brand president
Parent company: Inspire Brands
Explore Arby’s Franchise Ownership
Arby’s stands apart from other sandwich chains with a menu built around roast beef and a growing lineup of meats, sides and limited-time creations. Since launching in 1964, the brand has expanded to more than 3,600 restaurants worldwide.
Backed by Inspire Brands and led by president David Graves, Arby’s offers franchisees the stability of an established name with the resources and marketing power of one of the largest restaurant groups in the industry.
3. McAlister’s Deli
- Founded: 1989
- Franchising since: 1994
- Overall rank: 45
- Number of units: 550
- Change in units: +10% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $1,053,925 – $2,488,500
- Leadership: Mike Freeman, chief brand officer
- Parent company: GoTo Foods
McAlister’s Deli has earned loyal fans with its hearty sandwiches, giant baked potatoes and signature sweet tea.
Founded in 1989 and franchising since 1994, the fast-casual chain has grown to more than 1,000 locations across the U.S. McAlister’s emphasizes family-friendly dining and consistent quality, giving franchisees a concept with strong brand recognition, broad customer appeal and the backing of parent company GoTo Foods.
[Skipping over #4. Charleys Cheeseteaks and Wings, #5. Jimmy John’s, and #6. Firehouse Subs to get to the former #1 sandwich chain in the world, now ranked down the list at #7. – HEADLINE HEALTH]
7. Subway
- Founded: 1965
- Franchising since: 1974
- Overall rank: 155
- Number of units: 35,622
- Change in units: -3.0% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $238,625 – $536,745
- Leadership: Johnathan Fitzpatrick, CEO
- Parent company: Roark Capital
PREVIOUSLY ON HEADLINE HEALTH:
Review: Subway’s Fresh Fit Sandwiches Could Use Some More ‘Wow’ Factor
I’ve eaten Subway for decades. Today’s offering is a joyless abomination of its former glory
Subway remains one of the world’s most recognizable sandwich brands, with its build-your-own model and broad international reach. Since its founding in 1965, the chain has grown to more than 36,000 restaurants across 100 countries.
Now owned by Roark Capital, Subway is investing heavily in store remodels, digital ordering and menu innovation. For franchisees, it offers unparalleled brand awareness and a massive global footprint within the quick-service sandwich category …
