Key Investment Facts
[LAST UPDATED: Jul 2, 2026] · [VERIFIED · FDD]
About Subway
Global submarine sandwich chain with customizable fresh subs.
Training Program: 2 weeks of initial training included.
Tags: sandwiches, low-cost, global
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Investment Overview: Is Subway Worth It?
Opening a Subway franchise requires an initial investment in the range of $229K to $524K. The initial franchise fee is $15K, which grants you access to the brand, training, and operational systems. Ongoing royalty fees are 8.00% of gross revenue. Subway operates in the Food & Restaurant sector and typically requires owner-operator involvement.
As of the most recent disclosure, Subway has 36,690 total franchise units (36,690 franchised). Recent growth shows -3.50%, which signals steady market presence in the Food & Restaurant space. The reported failure rate is 8.00%. New franchisees receive 2 weeks of initial training to prepare for operations.
Franchisee satisfaction for Subway is rated 55 out of 100, which is considered moderate relative to other Food & Restaurant franchises. When evaluating this score, consider the specific market conditions and support structure that may influence owner experience. We recommend using our AI Financial Model tool to project personalized returns, and reviewing the full FDD analysis before making any investment decision.
Risk Assessment
Key risk signals from FDD data. Higher score = lower risk. Verify in the franchise's current disclosure document.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Subway
How much does it cost to open a Subway franchise?
The total initial investment for a Subway franchise ranges from $229K to $524K. This includes the franchise fee of $15K, plus buildout, equipment, inventory, and working capital. Ongoing royalty fees are 8.00% of gross revenue. Always request the current Franchise Disclosure Document for exact, up-to-date figures.
Is Subway a good franchise to buy in 2026?
Subway operates in the Food & Restaurant sector with 36,690 total units. Franchisee satisfaction is rated 55/100. Whether it's a good investment depends on your market, capital, and goals. We recommend using our AI Financial Model tool to project personalized returns before making a decision.
Can I run a Subway franchise as a semi-absentee owner?
Subway typically operates under a owner-operator model. Owner-operators are expected to be involved in daily management. This hands-on model usually offers more control over operations and customer experience but requires a greater time commitment.
What is the failure rate for Subway franchises?
The reported failure rate for Subway is 8.00%. Failure rates vary by market and operator experience. Always review Item 20 of the FDD, which discloses franchisee turnover, transfers, and terminations over the past three years.
How does Subway compare to other Food & Restaurant franchises?
Subway competes with other brands in the Food & Restaurant space. Key differentiators include investment level ($229K to $524K), franchisee satisfaction (55/100), and the owner-operator operating model. Use our franchise comparison tool to see side-by-side data against specific competitors.
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