Sub shop’s new loyalty program enhances the customer experience.
Staff Report
Fast-casual sandwich franchise Penn Station East Coast Subs (Penn Station) said it closed out 2025 with strong systemwide sales and new openings.
The brand, which serves up a variety of grilled-to-order subs, fresh-cut fries, and hand-squeezed lemonade, now has more than 320 locations nationwide. As Penn Station celebrated its 40th anniversary this past year, it reports that it opened four new restaurants, expanded into two new markets, and sold 15 franchise units.
Penn Station also reports that it saw three consecutive quarters of positive growth and completed the year with higher same-store sales in seven of the last eight months.
“2025 was a defining year for Penn Station,” said Lance Vaught, president of Penn Station East Coast Subs. “As we celebrated our 40th anniversary, we remained focused on what has always made our brand special—great food, passionate franchisees and strong community connections. The growth and recognition we achieved this year are a direct result of that commitment.”
While recognizing its 40th anniversary, Penn Station launched Penn Station Rewards, a new points-based loyalty program designed to enhance the guest experience while helping franchisees increase foot traffic, strengthen customer loyalty and drive repeat visits. The company says the new program represents a significant investment in digital engagement and long-term brand growth.
The brand also collaborated with Barstool Sports’ Pardon My Take hosts Big Cat and PFT Commenter, who partnered with Penn Station and Virtual Dining Concepts to introduce the Mega Cheesesteak, a limited-time offering featuring a mega portion of meat and cheese.
“Our focus in 2025 was building smart, sustainable growth while continuing to support our franchise partners,” said Craig Dunaway, chief operating officer of Penn Station East Coast Subs. “From new restaurant openings to loyalty and marketing initiatives, everything we launched was designed to strengthen unit-level performance and position the brand for continued success in the years ahead.”
Accolades captured in 2025 include ranking No. 3 on USA TODAY’s list of “Best Sandwich Shops in the Nation,” being named Cincinnati’s Best Cheesesteak for the 15th consecutive year and No. 1 French Fries by CityBeat readers.
Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Penn Station added that current expansion plans look to focus on openings in Michigan, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Information about franchise opportunities at Penn Station East Coast Subs can be found at https://penn-station.com/franchise/.
