Subway to almost double UK and Ireland stores

American fast food giant Subway has unveiled plans to almost double its number of stores in the UK and Ireland.

The sandwich franchise is aiming to expanding its shop count to 3000 by 2020, from 1700 currently, in a move it claims will create roughly 13,000 new jobs.

Mike Charest, Subway’s assistant regional director for Europe, said its UK and Ireland sales had risen 3.5 per centlast year, and added that the improving outlook for the economy was “playing a role” in the company’s expansion.

He also cited the firm’s offers, saying it had “done a lot of work during the slowdown around value”.

“Our franchisees are thrilled,” said Mr Charest, who claimed improvements to the healthier options on its menu had proved a success, with 40% of the sandwiches Subway sells now coming from its low-fat range.

“We’ve… strengthened our low-fat range, we’ve improved our kids pack, and we’ve really been working to provide products that we think are healthier than other fast food alternatives,” said Mr Charest.

Mr Charest said the company is looking at opportunities for new stores in places away from the high street, such as hospitals, petrol stations and universities.