Standing On His Own Two Feet

Thanks to SUBWAY, Rajveer Sandhar became his own boss at the age of 21

The SUBWAY brand is one of the largest and best known franchise businesses, with over 2,400 stores across the UK and Ireland and more than 44,000 stores in over 110 countries.

Its successful franchise model is enabling thousands of ambitious and entrepreneurial individuals to fulfil their dreams of becoming their own boss.

Second generation

At 21, Rajveer Sandhar became one of the youngest SUBWAY franchisees in the country. A second generation franchisee, he gained valuable experience helping to manage one of his father’s two SUBWAY stores, before taking the plunge and opening his own SUBWAY franchise in 2015.

Raj explains: “Working for my dad gave me a great insight into the benefits of franchising and what can be achieved. After successfully managing his SUBWAY store in Cannock for over two years, I felt it was time to stand on my own two feet.”

New SUBWAY franchisees are provided with robust support and training to help them get their businesses up and running. All new franchisees attend a comprehensive two-week training course at the UK and Ireland’s SUBWAY training centre in Cambridge.

Regional development agents provide practical support and assistance on the ground with everything from putting together a business plan, site selection and leasing to operations and store development. There are also regular opportunities to meet with fellow franchisees and share best practice.

Raj says: “I’m very lucky to receive support from my dad whenever I need it. He’s experienced in most matters and can answer most of my questions, but the support I also receive from the SUBWAY brand itself is invaluable.

“It’s very much a hands-on approach, with constant support from my field consultant and development agent - everyone wants to see you do well, which is very reassuring.

“I already knew the SUBWAY brand pretty well. However, the training I received was so extensive and interesting, I couldn’t help but feel confident in my own abilities.”

Right people

Starting a new business is hard work and requires commitment and motivation. That’s why it’s important to choose the right franchise to suit your own skills and interests.

Successful SUBWAY franchisees are self motivated, organised and hard working, as well as being passionate about the brand. They’re willing to get involved in every aspect of the business, from serving customers and ordering stock to local store marketing, human resources and recruitment.

Raj adds: “To open a franchise, especially for the SUBWAY brand, you need to have both your head and your heart in it 100 per cent. The support you receive is amazing. You get a step by step guide and if you really put your all into it, you can’t go wrong.

“I’m very proud of the fact that, as a SUBWAY franchisee, I can say I became my own boss at the age of 21 and I can’t wait for my journey with the SUBWAY brand to continue for many more years to come.

“I’ve set myself the target of opening five SUBWAY stores by the age of 30. I know it will be a tough challenge, but I’m looking forward to getting there.”