Fast food chain Subway has unveiled plans to double its restaurant network across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to 10,000 locations by 2031.
The move follows a year in which the company reported positive net restaurant growth across the region, alongside investment by existing and new partners.
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Subway said average unit volumes reached a record level. Meanwhile, digital sales rose by more than 20% year to date, supported by orders via its app, self-service kiosks and delivery platforms.
In the UK, Subway has extended its development agreement with Asda to open up to 70 further restaurants over the next four years.
The additions would increase the number of Subway outlets in Asda locations by more than 50%.
Asda has expanded its Subway portfolio to more than 120 restaurants during the past year.
Subway has also signed six master franchise agreements in EMEA over the past 18 months.
The deals cover 14 countries, including markets in Azerbaijan, Central Europe, Iberia, the Nordic countries, and Qatar.
More recently, the company agreed a ten-year development plan with Emerging Bites to establish 300 restaurants across Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia and the Czech Republic.
Subway has also opened its first sites in Azerbaijan through an agreement with N Sky Build.
To support franchisee profitability, the restaurant brand said it has introduced Blueprint, a store and operational refresh featuring redesigns and new daypart offerings.
The programme includes a new branding platform called ‘Get Your Own Way’ alongside breakfast and coffee service, packaged grab-and-go options, and an evening format with an adjusted menu.
From 1 January 2027, all new Subway restaurants and refurbished outlets in EMEA will be required to adopt the Blueprint design and operating model.
Subway EMEA president Tracy Gehlan said: “We’re building on a strong foundation across EMEA, with significant opportunities to grow in both existing and new markets.
“Our ambition to double our footprint reflects our confidence in the brand, our development partners and the long-term potential across the region.
“By expanding in the right locations and improving the experience for our guests and franchisees, we can continue bringing Subway to more guests in EMEA.”
