Subway announced that 2021 was a record-setting year for the brand, as it beat US sales projections by almost USD 1.4 billion. The growth was supported by the launch of Eat Fresh® Refresh,  a menu update Subway described as the largest in its history.

“Despite challenges brought on by the pandemic, such as reduced operating hours, 75% of the system, representing more than 16,000 locations, experienced a 7.5% increase in same-store sales in 2021, compared to 2019,” the company detailed.

In addition to improvements brought to several core ingredients on the menu — Subway also attributed its success in 2021 to offering guests a ‘better digital and in-restaurant experience’. Digital sales exceeded USD 1.3 billion in 2021, tripling since 2019. Improvements brought ease of access, and adapting to changing needs for ordering, delivery and catering. For on-location dining, Subway also invested to remodel its restaurants to offer a new, modernized look.

“Subway’s 2021 sales results indicate we have the right team and strategy to bring our multi-year transformation journey to life,” said John Chidsey, CEO of Subway. “As we continue to evolve and build a better Subway, our priority remains working closely with our network of dedicated franchisees to help them grow their business and deliver a better food and better guest experience.”

The company plans to use the momentum to develop in 2022, with new menu items, like Subway’s exclusive menu, The Vault™, as well as “enhanced digital channels, such as an all-new catering program coming in Spring 2022,” the company said. Internationally, over the past six months, Subway has signed agreements in India, Indonesia, Kuwait, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Thailand, meaning a total of more than 3,000 future restaurant commitments across EMEA and APAC. More international agreements will follow, the company anticipates.

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