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Subway: how they surpassed McDonald's in the number of restaurants

Success Stories 5 min de lecture 13 octobre 2025

Opening a Subway costs 3 to 5 times less than a McDonald’s.

No need for fancy equipment (just a bread maker and a toaster). Fits anywhere (gas stations, small spaces).

The “Sandwich Artist” does everything: prepares, processes payments, and cleans. Low salary.

Personalization for the client (“Eat Fresh”).

On the downside: cannibalization between franchisees too close together and scandals over the quality of bread (too sweet) or tuna.

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