Subway announces plans to create 1,300 jobs

DEFYING the economic downturn, sandwich-making giant, Subway, has announced plans to create 1,300 jobs as part of a massive expansion here over the next two years.

The US company, which employs about 2,000 people in Ireland, has 181 stores around the country and plans to open 119 ones by 2010.

Subway claims it is the largest quick-service food chain in Ireland — with more stores than McDonald’s.

Fred DeLuca, chief executive and founder of the chain, said the success of the Subway chain in Ireland was phenomenal. “We have seen fantastic growth over the last 10 years, which has been achieved by the strong franchise system, the entrepreneurial spirit and by the fact we give customers exactly what they want — sandwiches made exactly the way they want, fresh in front of them.”

Mr DeLuca said all the stores are owned by franchisees.

“These 99 entrepreneurs have worked together to create the most successful food retail business in Ireland of the past decade.”

Managers at the chain see Ireland and Britain as key markets for new franchises as they aim to expand the brand internationally.

A new head-office, which will report to the European headquarters in Amsterdam, is also set to open here.

Kevin Graham, Subway’s British and Ireland area development manager, said the two countries are seen as the gateway to Europe, and the chain is using the expansion here as an example of how efficiently and effectively it can be carried out in international markets.

Welcoming the announcement, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan said Subway’s further expansion of its operations was a strong vote of confidence in the continued growth of the food retail business in Ireland.

“I am particularly pleased that nearly all the food produce used by Subway is sourced in Ireland, which should ultimately lead to further job creation in the food supply and distribution sectors,” she said.

“Delivery of choice and quality is essential in the food services sector and clearly Subway have proved a huge success with Irish consumers.”