Subway is bringing back cheap footlong sandwiches as part of the fast food value menu wars, with any footlong selling for $6.99 beginning August 26. The deal is only available through the Subway app or website with a specific code and will end on September 8. The chain is trying to attract customers who are spending less due to rising fast food prices, a trend that has been affecting several major fast food chains this year.
While Subway, a privately held chain, does not often disclose sales figures like its publicly traded rivals, reports indicate that it has been struggling with sales and traffic, similar to issues faced by McDonald’s, Burger King, and Starbucks. Subway aims to cater to the budget-conscious customer with a full menu of footlongs at varying price points, including the discounted $6.99 offer. Additionally, the chain has introduced new menu items like $3 Dippers and Sidekick snacks priced between $2 and $5 to appeal to customers concerned about rising prices.
Experts suggest that Subway’s move to add Sidekicks and Dippers makes sense in the current market climate where customers are resisting price increases due to inflation. The chain has been underperforming in the sandwich segment and needs to find ways to drive more traffic and revenue. Subway has been making changes to its menu, app ordering system, international presence, and even the way it prepares meats by introducing freshly sliced options. Despite these efforts, the chain faces challenges such as a dwindling store count, with more than 400 locations closed in the US in 2023, resulting in its lowest count since 2005.
The fast food landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with Subway facing pressure to attract and retain customers by offering value and variety. By bringing back cheap footlongs and introducing new menu items, Subway is adapting to changing consumer preferences and spending habits. With the rise of customization, app-based ordering, and international expansion, Subway is aiming to remain relevant in a crowded market. Despite its challenges, Subway is taking steps to revitalize its brand and drive sales in the face of increasing competition and economic uncertainty.
