Subway has closed down 729 stores throughout North America. The popular chain, which recently boasted over 19,000 stores throughout the country, has seen its total storefronts drop to 18,773. Each store is run as a franchise, which is a similar business model to that of McDonald's.
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A recent statement from Subway noted that the closures are part of a strategic move.
"In the US, Subway is focused on ensuring restaurants are in the right locations, with the real estate, visibility and operations that set franchisees up to succeed long-term," the statement said, via The Daily Mail.
This isn't the first time we've seen Subway shut down a string of stores. According to the New York Post, the company had 27,000 locations in 2015, meaning more than 8,000 have slowly been removed in recent years.
Despite the decision to close more stores in North America, Subway is expanding at pace overseas.
"Subway is booming internationally, opening more than 1,000 new locations around the world in 2025 alone," The Daily Mail reported. "And there's plenty more in the pipeline, with over 30 master franchise agreements set to deliver a staggering 12,000 additional restaurants in the coming years."
When factoring in their worldwide presence, there is an estimated 35,000 subway stores globally.
Subway Has Introduced a Budget-Friendly Menu
In a bid to remain competitive and win back customers who may be feeling the pinch of an ever-increasing cost of living, the sub chain has introduced a budget-friendly menu, featuring 15 items. Each of those items is priced under $5.
Of course, Subway isn't the only chain to take this approach. McDonald's, Burger King, and most other major outlets have similar menus, too. After all, not only are they competing with rising costs in day-to-day life, but there has also been a global shift toward healthier lifestyles, which, in turn, has undoubtedly hit each company's bottom line.
With Subway set to open more stores globally this year, it's clear they're still finding success. However, store closures will always raise eyebrows, especially when they've been so aggressive with their location placement in recent years.
It will be interesting to see what 2026 brings for the popular sub chain and its rival fast food chains.
