Jersey Mike’s, the rapidly expanding sandwich chain that secured the #2 spot in the 2024 Franchise 500 list, has embarked on its first major international expansion, marking a monumental milestone in its journey. Originating from a single location at the Jersey Shore in 1956, the company has steadily grown its presence across the U.S. and is now venturing into Canada with plans to open 300 new locations in the coming years.
“The opportunities are abundant,” Jersey Mike’s founder and CEO Peter Cancro shared with Entrepreneur in January, emphasizing the company’s commitment to its core philosophy. “We will expand globally, but it is essential to partner with the right groups and individuals.”
For its expansion into Canada, Jersey Mike’s has selected Redberry Restaurants, a master franchisor with existing Burger King and Taco Bell locations in Canada, to lead the way.
The decision to enter the Canadian market aligns with Jersey Mike’s consistent growth in the U.S., with the brand opening 1,000 new stores in the last five years. This Canadian expansion represents a natural progression for Jersey Mike’s, solidifying its position as a prominent player in the fast-casual dining sector.
In addition to its international endeavors, Cancro revealed plans to open 1,000 more stores in the U.S. over the next three years, aiming for a total of 10,000 locations eventually. Despite this growth trajectory, the CEO emphasized maintaining a 13% to 15% unit growth per year to sustain the company’s success.
To support this steady expansion, Jersey Mike’s has established an infrastructure of area managers to collaborate with franchisees from the outset. This approach has enabled the company to smoothly open multiple stores in a week without complications.
Entering the Canadian market also underscores the increasing demand for Jersey Mike’s distinct product offerings. The brand’s focus on delivering high-quality alternatives to traditional fast food has garnered a loyal customer following in the U.S. Additionally, Jersey Mike’s community involvement initiatives, such as its annual Month of Giving, have further elevated its reputation as one of the most popular sub chains in the country.
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