FRANCHISE RESALES

Buy a Cousins Submarines Franchise

Cousins Subs, founded in 1972 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin by cousins Bill Specht and Jim Sheppard, is a regional fast-casual sub sandwich chain with nearly 100 locations primarily in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana. The brand is known for its signature “Better Bread, Better Subs” slogan, emphasizing fresh bread baked daily and high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Cousins Subs has a strong Midwestern identity and community focus, reinforced by its Make It Better Foundation, which supports health, wellness, hunger relief, and youth education. After strategic closures during the Great Recession, the company refocused on quality and brand consistency, remodeling locations with a modern “Milwaukee Sub Shop” design. The brand is actively expanding in the Midwest, including new corporate-owned drive-thru locations and multi-unit franchise development.

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Why buy a Cousins Submarines Franchise?

Investing in a Cousins Subs franchise offers entry into a well-established, growing regional brand with a proven business model centered on quality and community. Franchisees benefit from strong corporate support, a recognizable product with a loyal customer base, and a strategic expansion plan focused on drive-thru and multi-unit development. The brand’s commitment to local sourcing and philanthropy adds value and differentiation in a competitive fast-casual market.

Cousins Submarines Franchise Costs & Information

Based on 2024 data reported in the 2025 FDD

  • Brand Profile

    • Year Founded

      1972

    • Franchising Since

      1985

    • New Startup Cost

      $464,700 – $1,164,500

    • Avg. Resale Price

      Contact us for details

  • Franchise Fees

    • Initial franchise Fee

      $25,000

      for new territories

    • Transfer Fee

      20%

      of Initial Franchise Fee or $5,000, whichever is greater

    • Royalty Fee

      6%

      of Gross Revenue

    • Marketing Fee

      2%

      of Gross Receipts

  • Unit Performance

    • Total Units *

      94

    • New Units Opened *

      7

    • Units Transferred *

      4

    • Avg. Unit revenue *

      $849,415

    * Based on 2024 data reported in the 2025 FDD

Cousins Submarines – Additional  Information

  1. Franchisee Support

    Cousins Subs offers franchisees extensive support including site selection, lease negotiation, operational training, marketing assistance, and proprietary software tools. Franchisees benefit from regional and national advertising, social media campaigns, loyalty programs, and ongoing field operations support. The company encourages multi-unit development and provides exclusive territories. Franchisees also gain access to a collaborative network and regular corporate communications, conventions, and a toll-free support line.

  2. Accolades & Awards

    Cousins Subs is recognized for its strong regional brand presence and franchisee satisfaction, reflected in steady growth and inclusion in franchise rankings. The brand’s commitment to quality and community engagement through its Make It Better Foundation enhances its reputation. Cousins Subs’ longevity and expansion underscore its respected status in the Midwest fast-casual market.

  3. Industry / Market

    The fast-casual sandwich market continues to grow, driven by consumer demand for fresh, customizable, and convenient dining options. Cousins Subs’ focus on fresh-baked bread, grilled subs, and quality ingredients aligns well with these trends. The brand’s expansion into drive-thru formats and new Midwest markets positions it to capitalize on increasing demand for quick, high-quality meals.

  4. Ideal Owner

    The ideal Cousins Subs franchisee is an entrepreneur with strong business acumen, a commitment to quality, and a passion for community engagement. Multi-unit operators and investors with capital and resources to grow the brand in new markets are especially welcomed. Prior restaurant experience is beneficial but not mandatory due to comprehensive training and support.

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