Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs is a fast-casual restaurant brand known for its hot submarine sandwiches, founded in Jacksonville, Florida in 1994 by brothers Chris and Robin Sorensen, who previously served as firefighters. The company began as a single neighborhood shop and has steadily grown over the past three decades, reaching a significant milestone with its 1,400th location opening in Clearwater, Florida as of October 2025.

Today, Firehouse Subs operates primarily through a franchise model, with franchisees owning 97 percent of its restaurants in the United States and Canada. The brand’s footprint now extends across the U.S., Canada, and select international markets, with ongoing expansion efforts targeting both established and emerging communities. The company’s growth has accelerated since its acquisition by Restaurant Brands International in December 2021, a move that brought additional resources and expertise to support new market entries and development. Firehouse Subs continues to prioritize locations in high-traffic retail corridors and suburban areas, reflecting a flexible approach to site selection that appeals to a broad range of landlords and developers.

A defining aspect of the brand is its commitment to public safety, demonstrated through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. This initiative has provided over $102 million in lifesaving equipment and support to first responders and public safety organizations, reinforcing the company’s reputation for community engagement and social responsibility.

The company’s headquarters remain in Jacksonville, Florida, and it is led by CEO Mike Hancock. Firehouse Subs’ consistent expansion, franchise-driven model, and strong brand recognition make it a sought-after tenant in retail developments, with a track record of successful operations in both new and established markets. The brand’s recent growth, including its international push and partnership with a global restaurant group, underscores its position as a credible and adaptable player in the evolving quick-service restaurant landscape.