15 Best Sandwich Restaurant Franchises for 2024

Whether it’s a timeless BLT or an adventurous banh mi, sandwich shops offer a beloved and profitable choice for both customers and entrepreneurs. As a result, the sandwich franchise industry is as wide-ranging as the options that can go between two pieces of bread.

In 2024, the $41 billion sandwich industry is more vibrant than ever. Franchises in this space capitalize on the trend of customizable, fresh and convenient food options that appeal to a broad demographic. With a relatively low entry cost and a simple operational model, sandwich franchises present an attractive investment opportunity. The industry’s adaptability and innovation in menu offerings and service models, such as delivery and online ordering, make it a competitive player in the restaurant sector.

Here are the top 15 sandwich restaurant franchises for 2024, complete with initial investment ranges, unit counts, and unique selling points.

Subway

• Initial Investment: $102,000 - $263,000
• Unit Count: 37,000+

Subway offers a simple operation model with low startup costs and is renowned for its customizable sandwiches. As one of the most recognizable brands globally, Subway provides franchisees with comprehensive training and support, marketing initiatives and a proven business model that emphasizes operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. That said, Subway has seen a decrease in the number of its locations in recent years due to various factors, including market saturation, unsatisfied franchisees, a tight supply chain and increased competition.

Jimmy John’s

• Initial Investment: $329,500 - $557,500
• Unit Count: 2,755

Known for its fast delivery service, Jimmy John’s prioritizes speed and fresh ingredients. The brand’s business model is designed around efficiency, with a streamlined menu and quick service times that appeal to customers seeking convenience without sacrificing quality. Franchisees benefit from robust support systems, including comprehensive training programs, marketing strategies and supply chain management. As opposed to most QSR brands that rely on third-party delivery, Jimmy John’s leverages its own delivery fleet, avoiding extensive fees for franchise owners. 

Jersey Mike’s Subs

• Initial Investment: $194,035 - $954,611
• Unit Count: 2,000+

Jersey Mike’s is famous for its authentic East Coast-style subs and strong community involvement. The franchise’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and exceptional customer service has fostered a loyal customer base. The beloved chain was named one of the fastest-growing franchises by QSR Magazine, making it a popular choice for prospective franchise owners. 

Firehouse Subs

• Initial Investment: $189,574 - $997,320
• Unit Count: 1,170

Firehouse Subs specializes in hot subs and supports public safety organizations through its Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The franchise’s unique commitment to public safety resonates with customers, creating a strong brand identity amongst both customers and franchise owners. 

Cheba Hut

• Initial Investment: $297,000 - $466,100
• Unit Count: 65

Cheba Hut offers toasted subs in a cannabis-themed setting, aiming at a relaxed and fun dining experience. The franchise’s unique branding and atmosphere attract a specific customer demographic looking for a laid-back dining experience. Each Cheba Hut is unique to its location, for example. Franchisees work with local artists to paint a mural that reflects them and their community.

Arby’s

• Initial Investment: $336,500 - $927,900
• Unit Count: 3,500+

Arby’s focuses on roast beef sandwiches and a diverse menu that includes market-fresh sandwiches and wraps. Arby’s restaurants are now constructed in a traditional or non-traditional design, highlighting prominent architectural features. The flexible, contemporary layout allows the brand to adapt restaurants to almost any prime commercial site. The chain also offers a range of prototypes and investment options to accommodate specific business needs.

Quiznos

• Initial Investment: $211,859 - $326,549
• Unit Count: 600+

Quiznos offers toasted subs with distinctive recipes, including a variety of innovative flavor combinations. Although the brand saw over 4,000 closures due to a slew of challenges and an eventual bankruptcy, Quiznos recently announced plans for a redesigned concept in 2022 and is looking to kickstart franchise growth again.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

• Initial Investment: $499,000 - $850,000
• Unit Count: 400+

Potbelly offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with oven-toasted sandwiches and live music performances. The franchise’s focus on creating a unique dining experience, combined with high-quality ingredients attracts a diverse customer base. Now, with plans to shift the concept from primarily company-owned to primarily franchise-operated, the sandwich franchise is looking to reach 2,000 locations within the next decade. 

Which Wich

• Initial Investment: $175,500 - $480,250
• Unit Count: 400+

Which Wich is known for its customizable sandwiches, where customers fill out order forms to create their perfect “wich.” The franchise’s interactive ordering system and focus on personalization appeal to a wide range of tastes. Upon entering a Which Wich, customers grab a paper bag that has printed options on it such as types of breads, meats, cheeses and vegetables, and they mark their choices with a marker before handing in their bag at the counter. Then, when their name is called, customers get their sandwich in their own customized bag. Customers are also encouraged to doodle on their paper bag, which can be hung on Which Wich’s “gallery wall.” 

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop

• Initial Investment: $193,500 - $453,000
• Unit Count: 112

Famous for its signature sandwich, The Bobbie, Capriotti’s focuses on hand-crafted sandwiches made from premium ingredients. For prospective franchise owners, the brand provides all the necessary training in order to operate a sandwich shop and does not require its franchisees to have former restaurant experience. The corporate team says it has created uncomplicated systems and operations to make sure every process is easy to follow, which has maximized efficiency and quality customer service.

Blimpie

• Initial Investment: $74,780 - $409,700
• Unit Count: 200+

Blimpie offers a variety of deli-style sandwiches and prides itself on its commitment to quality and taste. With a rich history and affordable startup costs, it’s an attractive option for new franchisees. 

Schlotzsky’s

• Initial Investment: $503,273 - $2,694,850
• Unit Count: 350+

Schlotzsky’s is known for its unique sourdough buns and a broad menu that includes salads, pizzas and wraps. Schlotzsky’s offers flexible footprints and franchise outlet options including: Non-traditional shops (within malls or airports, for example), drive-thru shops and traditional, stand alone shops.

Charleys Philly Steaks

• Initial Investment: $251,637 - $1,002,700
• Unit Count: 600+

Charleys specializes in Philly cheesesteaks and offers a simple operational model with high-quality ingredients. The brand offers flexibility in terms of restaurant locations — this includes freestanding units with drive-thrus, end caps, in-line locations in strip malls, food courts in malls and airports, and non-traditional locations like travel plazas, office complexes and co-branding opportunities in convenience and gas station locations.

McAlister’s Deli

• Initial Investment: $762,000 - $2,058,000
• Unit Count: 450+

McAlister’s offers a welcoming atmosphere with a wide variety of sandwiches, soups and salads, along with its famous sweet tea. Unlike many restaurants that require complex equipment like grills and fryers, McAlister’s relies on a straightforward kitchen setup, saving both time and resources. This simplicity extends to the restaurant’s operating hours, as well. With no early mornings or late nights, franchisees can maintain a work-life balance that is often elusive in the food-service industry.

Penn Station East Coast Subs

• Initial Investment: $416,985 - $770,315
• Unit Count: 315+

Penn Station focuses on grilled, made-to-order sandwiches with fresh-cut fries and fresh-squeezed lemonade. The franchise’s emphasis on freshness and quality has built a loyal following. Franchisees receive thorough training, marketing support, and benefit from the brand’s strong reputation for quality and customer service.

Investing in a franchise in the sandwich industry provides an opportunity to tap into a market that values fresh, high-quality ingredients and convenient meal options. Each of these franchises offers unique selling points and proven business models, making them excellent choices for potential franchisees.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.