Food Network Show Winner Opens Jersey Mike’s

Jersey Mike’s newest franchisee, Raejeanna Foster, is opening up her first restaurant in Mt. Vernon, Washington on May 14, nearly one year to the day that she was awarded her very own restaurant by company Founder and CEO, Peter Cancro, on Food Network’s reality series, Giving You the Business.

Situated at 115 E. College Way, Foster will host a grand opening and a free sub fundraiser from May 14-May 18 in support of Mount Vernon High School. To promote the event, Foster  is circulating 10,000 coupons throughout the community offering a free regular sub for a minimum of $1 contribution to  the high school.

Prior to becoming a franchisee with the Jersey Mike’s brand, the young mother of four began as a manager in training three years ago, before moving up to general manager of three locations in Mukliteo, Shoreline and Redmond with franchise owner Steve Berry. Her successful hands-on approach to leadership was the reason she was selected to compete on the Food Network show.

Airing on May 16, 2013, Giving You the Business, featured four standout Jersey Mike’s managers that Cancro handpicked to be put through a series of challenges to test their business savvy skills. While the show normally ends with one winner who is awarded a franchise, Cancro chose to award all four contestants with a franchise, and Foster’s location is the first of four to open.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Jeanna and know that as an owner she’ll continue to be an extraordinary representative of the Jersey Mike’s brand,” said Cancro.  “On the show, and every day in our restaurants, Jeanna shows great heart, an inspiring work ethic and a true commitment to her teams and customers.” Foster said it was surreal when Cancro announced she’d have her own franchise.  “Opening up my own restaurant is a dream come true,” she said.  “Everyone within Jersey Mike’s has made this so easy.  We can’t wait to open our doors, serve everyone and get to know our new neighbors.” Foster shares the company’s commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service, and is dedicated to giving back to the local community.  Since 2010, Jersey Mike’s locations throughout the country have raised nearly $10 million for worthy local charities and have distributed more than 750,000 free sub sandwiches to help numerous causes. Started in 1956, Jersey Mike’s now has 1,300 restaurants open and under development nationwide.  In just three years, the company has nearly doubled in size.  A 2014 Technomic report ranked Jersey Mike’s in the top five fastest-growing restaurant chains with sales above $200 million. The growth is fueled by passionate Jersey Mike’s fans who crave their subs made Mike’s Way® with the freshest vegetables – onions, lettuce and tomatoes – topped off with an exquisite zing of “the juice” – red wine vinegar and olive oil blended to perfection.  Jersey Mike’s premium meats and cheeses are sliced on the spot, piled high on in-store baked bread and served up with a helping of neighborly banter from a dedicated and high-energy team. The restaurant’s hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.  You can contact this location directly at (360) 873-8709.