Firehouse Subs announced the signing of nine Area Representative development agreements totaling 429 restaurants to open over the next several years. The new agreements include development territories within Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas.

"The signing of these agreements is a true testament to the strength of the Firehouse Subs brand and its growing popularity," said Don Fox, CEO of Firehouse Subs. "As we continue to expand our footprint, we look forward to bringing customers the high-level of service and quality food that has become synonymous with Firehouse Subs."

The Area Representative agreements support Firehouse Subs' growth from 30 restaurants in 2000 to its 416 current locations. The company has set goals to open 2,000 locations by 2020.

Area Representatives' responsibilities include selling franchises and providing the overall marketing and operational support to the franchisees, who oversee their own day-to-day operations. Additional responsibilities include increasing market share, maintaining revenue and developing management teams. This entrepreneurial model provides a caliber of support and a continuity of relationships that best serves Firehouse Subs' growth strategy.

"Our growth over the past several years has been tremendous and is due to the quality and hard work of our Area Representatives and franchisees," said Fox. "From the quality of our food to the structure of our business model, we truly believe that 'Our Way Beats Their Way,' and recent industry recognition has supported our claim including being named the #1 Mover & Shaker on Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers list and one of the top 10 fastest growing restaurant chains from Technomic."

Source: Firehouse Subs