Subway looking to update stores’ not-so-fresh look

Associated Press

NEW YORK

Subway wants to freshen up the look of its stores as it tries to stem a sales decline.

The sandwich chain says the redesign – which includes a brighter atmosphere, displays of vegetables behind the counter and ordering tablets – is the first major revamp since the early 2000s. The changes will take place as stores around the country are remodeled and new ones are built.

The makeover comes as Subway’s sales have fallen for four straight years amid competition from places including Jimmy John’s and Firehouse Subs. Since 2012, Subway’s average annual sales per store are down 13 percent at $420,000, according to industry tracker Technomic. Last year, its number of U.S. stores also shrank for the first time, though the company says it still has more than 26,200 domestic locations. Globally, the chain says it has more than 44,800.

Don Fertman, Subway’s chief development officer, says franchisee agreements require them to remodel stores every seven to 10 years. The company says franchisees will have a variety of design options to pick from, and that it is looking for ways to help them lower costs.

In the U.S. and Canada, new stores will be built using the redesign. About 150 stores will get the new look in the coming months, Fertman said.