Jimmy John’s

Jimmy John’s is a national sandwich chain recognized for its focus on fresh ingredients and quick service. The company started in 1983 when founder Jimmy John Liautaud opened the first shop in Charleston, Illinois, using a small loan from his father. What began as a single storefront catering to college students soon gained a reputation for affordable, high-quality sandwiches delivered at speed. This approach set Jimmy John’s apart and fueled early growth, with franchising beginning in 1994.

A major milestone came in the early 2000s when the brand surpassed 200 locations, establishing its model as both scalable and appealing to entrepreneurs. The company’s footprint has grown steadily since then. As of November 2025, Jimmy John’s operates more than 2,700 stores across 43 states, with nearly all locations run by franchisees. The headquarters remains in Champaign, Illinois.

In 2019, Jimmy John’s was acquired by Inspire Brands, joining a portfolio that includes other well-known restaurant concepts. Over the past five years, the brand has invested in new formats, such as drive-thru locations and enhanced digital ordering, to meet evolving customer preferences. Expansion efforts have focused on infill growth in established markets and selective entry into new regions, particularly in Texas, Florida, California, the Midwest, and the Southeast. Jimmy John’s continues to seek high-traffic retail corridors and mixed-use developments, relying on its strong franchisee network and operational efficiency.

With a flexible store model and a track record of adapting to changing retail environments, Jimmy John’s remains a reliable tenant for a range of property types. The company’s ongoing growth and commitment to innovation have helped it maintain credibility and relevance in the competitive fast-casual segment.