Jersey Mike's Gets Crazy Good Reviews With Charities

LIZA M. RUSH Building is a key word when establishing your franchise. From concepts, locations, and menus—franchisors have their hands full with setting the foundation for a successful business. But a cornerstone often neglected when it comes to branding is reputation. Jersey Mike’s is known for their freshly sliced East Coast-style subs and their dedication to giving back to the community. With 750 locations nationwide, the fast-casual sub sandwich franchise launched their third annual “Day of Giving” fundraiser. On March 27, 100 percent of restaurant sales will benefit 86 local charities including Make-A-Wish Foundation of Alabama, The Children’s Hunger Project, and the Yellow Ribbon Fund. The brand will continue the festivities by allowing customers to make charitable donations at each location throughout the entire month of March. In 2012, the fundraiser topped off with nearly $900,000 for 74 charities in a single day, and since 2010, has raised more than $5 million. Following the mantra, “Giving…making a difference in someone’s life,” Jersey Mike’s prides itself on assisting anyway they can, even distributing 500,000 free sub sandwiches to numerous causes. This event not only provides the brand national recognition and press, but a resounding positive reputation. Dalton Stewart, a Jersey Mike’s franchisee, notes many of the months’ customers were present to provide “real business” for the restaurant - meaning their loyalty keeps them coming back for more. Evelyn Costolo, CEO of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer, has felt the benefits of the fundraiser and has seen the difference Jersey Mike’s makes in the lives of children who have been diagnosed with some form of cancer. “Each day 46 children in America receive the devastating news that they have cancer. One in every five will not survive this diagnosis.  Thanks to the incredible support of donors like Jersey Mike’s, we are making a difference in the fight for better treatments and the search for a cure,” Costolo said. This is all good news for Jersey Mike’s CEO, Peter Cancro, who now carries the reputation of “the man here to help.”  The benefit? Cancro’s brand allows customers to enjoy quality food while improving the lives of others, and establishes itself as a well-known leader in global fundraising efforts.