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Firehouse Subs planting flag in Canada

Firehouse Subs is heading north, announcing plans for expansion into Canada.

September 4, 2015

Firehouse Subs is heading north, announcing plans for expansion into Canada. With more than 900 locations across 43 states and Puerto Rico, the restaurant chain plans to open more than 90 locations in the Ontario market with future plans for further Canada expansion, according to a company press release.

"Growing our brand has always been a priority and we are excited for the very first development outside of the United States to be with our neighbours to the north," said Don Fox, CEO. "Firehouse Subs and our Canadian partners, ONFIRE Restaurants Inc., share an appreciation for great food, heartfelt service, and supporting the communities we serve. Together, we are looking forward to bringing exciting new flavours to Canada and growth opportunities for small business franchise owners."

ONFIRE Restaurants is a partnership between three Canada-based restaurant industry veterans. With more than 50 combined years of restaurant development and management experience, Alex Gerzon, Richard Jodoin, and George Heos are leaders in the Canadian restaurant industry.

"Our team researched many companies, but Firehouse Subs stood out for its exceptional product, dynamic culture and dedication to community service. We fell in love with the product after our first bite and know our fellow Canadians will do the same," said Alex Gerzon, ONFIRE Restaurants partner. "While people are very accustomed to sub-style sandwiches, they will find Firehouse Subs more compelling and differentiated than any brand out there."

From restaurant franchising and real estate to marketing and operations, the ONFIRE Restaurants team has lead successful expansion for some of Canada’s largest and most well-known restaurant brands and has a reputation for formulating successful business strategies that align with Firehouse Subs’ practice of smart growth, according to the release.