Subway Australia has announced a financial assistance program to support its 1300 restaurants through the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) crisis.
Country Director for Australia, Chris Churchmichael, said Subway had been working to develop a series of support packages, designed to provide immediate and ongoing relief for franchise owners to help the brand’s 1000 owners through the global Coronavirus crisis and beyond.
“While the health and safety of our teams and guests will always be our top priority, we are also very focused on assisting our franchise owners to navigate their way through this unprecedented crisis,” Mr Churchmichael said.
“Subway has been looking at a variety of ways to financially support our owners during this time, including actively negotiating with lenders, landlords and suppliers to ease immediate financial pressures.
“We are also supporting franchise owners by freezing fees, to provide more cash flow at a time when they need it most, during the worst of this crisis.
“Subway has waived all marketing fees and will collect just 50 per cent of royalty fees, with remaining fees deferred until after the crisis. We will continue to monitor the impacts of coronavirus and consider further measures to support our franchise owners.”
Mr Churchmichael acknowledged that all food businesses had been hit hard by the Coronavirus crisis and encouraged the community to continue supporting their local restaurant.
“Each of our 1300 restaurants is owned and operated by local franchise owners. These are small businesses that are invested in communities across Australia and provide employment for people young and old,” he said.
“Please support your local franchise owner by continuing to enjoy your Subway favourites. Subway restaurants are open for takeaway and pre-orders through the Subway Australia app, with additional health and hygiene measures in place at all restaurants for the safety of our guests.
“Guests can also get Subway delivered to their door, through Uber Eats and Deliveroo. Free delivery is now available for orders from Uber Eats over $15, making it even easier to access your Subway favourites without leaving the house.”
More information about online and delivery order is available at subway.com.au.