Franchise Directory

For some sandwich fans, the company with two first names is the first choice for subs. Jimmy John's Franchise operates and franchises more than 550 quick service restaurants in about 35 states popular for their submarine sandwiches. The chain's menu features sub sandwiches made with a variety of toppings (and carrying such names as Big John, J.J. Gargantuan, and Vito) along with club sandwiches made with whole wheat or French bread. Jimmy John's locations typically offer limited seating as well as delivery service. Chairman "Jimmy" John Liautaud, who founded the company in 1983, controls the company.

Despite the recession’s impact on the restaurant industry, Jimmy John’s has thrived during hard times, moving up to #4 overall on our AllStar ranking. The company added 100 franchises last year, earning a growth ranking of #22.

Sandwich shops in general have benefited as people trimming their lunchtime budgets switch from sit-down restaurants to less-expensive eateries and seek healthier options. Jimmy John’s has an irreverent image and cult-like fan following that make it a natural for social media, and online marketing methods including a Facebook presence have boosted its Web visibility from #69 last year to #21 this year. Brand awareness overall is strong, at #62.

Founder Jimmy John Liautaud’s focus on cash management continues to pay off: The company’s financial strength ranking jumped to #62 from #118 last year.

Last Year's AllStar Rank: 17

Full Disclosure Award
This company gets a nod for disclosing financial performance representations in Item 19 of its Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). For an explanation of why this is important, read The Importance of Item 19 in the Franchise Disclosure Document.