Quiznos Eyes 600 New Stores

Quiznos has announced plans to develop as many as 600 new stores nationwide by the end of the year. The mix will include more corporate and joint-venture efforts than in the past, the traditionally franchise-focused chain said.

The 4,000-unit Denver chain reported new locations will include “both corporate-owned stores as well as Quiznos-funded joint-venture ownership opportunities for qualified entrepreneurs.” Quiznos founder and CEO Rick Schaden cited the strength of the corporate business model as spurring the investment in corporate-owned stores. Last fall, Quiznos unveiled a capital-loan program for its franchisees, followed by a pilot program offering franchises with a greatly reduced down payment.

In addition to new-store development, Quiznos has been renovating existing units. More than 1,100 locations have expanded their menus and refreshed the brand’s look; company plans call for another 2,000 sites to be renovated in the next 12 months.