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Making a Name in the Sandwich Business

AS YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD SANDWICH SHOP

AT THE HEART OF PORT OF SUBS IS A CLEAR MISSION:

To create delicious subs to deliver joy and unite communities, as we spread the sub love worldwide!

1972

THE BEGINNING

Port of Subs has been bringing people together since 1972. Our story began when two brothers from New Jersey opened a modest submarine shop in Sparks, Nevada, known as the “Sub Shop”.

1975

BECOMING PORT OF SUBS®

John Larsen and his family recognized the potential of the business and gained full ownership in 1975. Determined to set themselves apart from imitators, they launched a community-wide contest to find a new name. After reviewing over 10,000 entries, ‘Port of Subs’ was born. Over the next decade, the Larsens expanded to 10 company-owned restaurants in Northern Nevada. As demand grew, many people approached them about opening restaurants in their hometowns to enjoy the unique fresh taste of Port of Subs® more often.

1975

BECOMING PORT OF SUBS®

John Larsen and his family recognized the potential of the business and gained full ownership in 1975. Determined to set themselves apart from imitators, they launched a community-wide contest to find a new name. After reviewing over 10,000 entries, ‘Port of Subs’ was born. Over the next decade, the Larsens expanded to 10 company-owned restaurants in Northern Nevada. As demand grew, many people approached them about opening restaurants in their hometowns to enjoy the unique fresh taste of Port of Subs® more often.

1985

FRANCHISE BLUEPRINT

In 1985, we embraced the franchise model to meet growing consumer demand. To prepare for expansion, our 10th company-owned store was designed as a prototype, incorporating scalable restaurant floor plans, interior design, and equipment–including bread ovens and signage–to support future franchising. Once John Larsen was satisfied with the results, Port of Subs® launched its franchising journey by opening its first franchise in Reno, NV.

1987-1998

NEW STATES, NEW MASCOT

John Larsen and his family recognized the potential of the business and gained full ownership in 1975. Determined to set themselves apart from imitators, they launched a community-wide contest to find a new name. After reviewing over 10,000 entries, ‘Port of Subs’ was born. Over the next decade, the Larsens expanded to 10 company-owned restaurants in Northern Nevada. As demand grew, many people approached them about opening restaurants in their hometowns to enjoy the unique fresh taste of Port of Subs® more often.

1987-1998

NEW STATES, NEW MASCOT

John Larsen and his family recognized the potential of the business and gained full ownership in 1975. Determined to set themselves apart from imitators, they launched a community-wide contest to find a new name. After reviewing over 10,000 entries, ‘Port of Subs’ was born. Over the next decade, the Larsens expanded to 10 company-owned restaurants in Northern Nevada. As demand grew, many people approached them about opening restaurants in their hometowns to enjoy the unique fresh taste of Port of Subs® more often.

2000-2007

A TASTE OF EXPANSION

In 2000, Port of Subs® listened to its customers and permanently added sourdough bread to the menu. That same year, the brand continued its expansion, opening its first franchise restaurant in Utah, followed by Idaho in 2001.
Growth accelerated in 2005 with the launch of a new prototype restaurant in Phoenix, AZ—setting the standard for future Port of Subs® locations. By 2007, the brand had expanded even further, opening its first franchise restaurant in Oregon, marking another milestone in its journey.

2011-2015

GOING DIGITAL

In 2011, Port of Subs® embraced the digital age by introducing online ordering, allowing customers to easily browse the menu, customize their subs, and place orders with ease.

Building on this, in 2015, the Port of Subs® mobile app was launched, giving customers even more convenience with ordering on the go. Available on the App Store and Google Play, the app brought a seamless and accessible experience to fans of fresh, made-to-order subs.

2011-2015

GOING DIGITAL

In 2011, Port of Subs® embraced the digital age by introducing online ordering, allowing customers to easily browse the menu, customize their subs, and place orders with ease.

Building on this, in 2015, the Port of Subs® mobile app was launched, giving customers even more convenience with ordering on the go. Available on the App Store and Google Play, the app brought a seamless and accessible experience to fans of fresh, made-to-order subs.

2017

ELEVATING THE EXPERIENCE

2017 was a year of exciting upgrades for Port of Subs®. The Port Perks Rewards Program was introduced, giving loyal customers the chance to earn points for purchases, enjoy $5 in Sub Bucks on their birthday, and unlock exclusive deals. To further support our customers, the Port of Subs® Nutrition Portal launched, providing complete and accurate nutrition information at portofsubs.com. That same year, restaurant designs were refreshed with contemporary colors, and back lines were installed to support our growing online and catering business—enhancing both aesthetics and efficiency.

2019

FLAVOR AT YOUR DOORSTEP

In 2019, Port of Subs® made enjoying your favorite subs even easier by partnering with DoorDash, GrubHub, and UberEats to offer delivery services, meeting the growing demand for convenience. That same year, hot sandwiches were reimagined, and our Specialty Hot Subs—featuring customer favorites and melts—were added to the menu. To take flavor customization to the next level, 15 delicious sauces were introduced, giving customers even more ways to enjoy their perfect sub.

2019

FLAVOR AT YOUR DOORSTEP

In 2019, Port of Subs® made enjoying your favorite subs even easier by partnering with DoorDash, GrubHub, and UberEats to offer delivery services, meeting the growing demand for convenience. That same year, hot sandwiches were reimagined, and our Specialty Hot Subs—featuring customer favorites and melts—were added to the menu. To take flavor customization to the next level, 15 delicious sauces were introduced, giving customers even more ways to enjoy their perfect sub.

2023

A NEW ERA

In 2023, Port of Subs® caught the attention of Area 15 Ventures, a distinguished investment firm led by Dave Liniger, the co-founder and former CEO of RE/MAX. Drawing from our rich legacy, core values, and rock-solid business model, Liniger and his team are bringing their franchise expertise to fuel accelerated growth and rapid expansion of the brand. As we ride the wave of success, we’ll bring the unique taste of Port of Subs® to more neighborhoods than ever before.

BRAND EVOLUTION

Our Logos Over Time

Our Culture

At Port of Subs®, we’re more than just a sub shop. Our culture is centered around exceptional service, community involvement, and a passion for quality. Find out what makes us a unique and valued part of your neighborhood.

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Community Connection

We’re committed to supporting the communities we serve. Discover how we contribute to local causes and initiatives and learn how you can get involved with our efforts.

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Calling All Entrepreneurs

If you’re an entrepreneur looking to make a mark, consider opening a Port of Subs in your area. Join a network of successful franchisees and bring our quality subs and community spirit to your neighborhood.

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Ranked for Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Franchise 500” in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013.

Port of Subs® has the U.S. Small Business Administration stamp of approval.

Port of Subs® is a member of the International Franchise Association.

Port of Subs® participates in the IFA’s Vet-Fran Program.