Quiznos plans to open another sandwich shop inside Meijer — this time at the Carpenter Road store at 3825 Carpenter Road, in Pittsfield Township.
A national chain, Quiznos sells hot and cold sub sandwiches, salads, soups and breakfast items.
This will be the third Quiznos franchise for owner Subhash Patel, who also owns the sub shop at 4655 Washtenaw, in Ann Arbor, in addition to leasing space inside the Scio Township Meijer.
Although sales are not as high as anticipated at the Scio Township store since opening eight months ago, Patel said he has seen business improving weekly.
“We need to continue to build awareness that there is a Quiznos inside Meijer,” said Patel, who said the shop is attracting shoppers but not as many employees as expected.
Regardless, Patel is moving ahead with his plan to open inside the Carpenter Road Meijer and hopes that higher foot traffic in that location will help business.
“Scio Township is a developing area, whereas Carpenter Road is already developed,” said Patel. “They also have a lot of college kids over there and that will attract a different crowd.”
Though there is a Subway and Jersey Mike’s Subs nearby, Patel is not concerned, saying that there are always competitors for sandwich shops.
Slightly larger than the 1,200-square-foot space in the Scio Road Meijer’s, the latest Quiznos will seat 35 and will be located in front of the bakery and next to the deli. It will be accessible through the store entrance.
“It’s a little bit different and unusual for that location,” said Patel. “The counter where they will order is right next to the deli, so that will help. People will see it.”
Currently under construction, Patel hopes to open the new location last week of August. A sign will be posted at the location when hiring will begin for sandwich makers and cashiers. He said he intends to hire five employees to start.
Although Patel has no plans to open another Quiznos location in the near future, he would stick to leasing space inside Meijer as opposed to a free-standing location.
“Inside Meijer is very cost-friendly and the traffic is there,” said Patel. “We just have to do our job marketing-wise.”
Marketing efforts include a new product strategy to promote Quiznos products as well as cost-friendly options.
“Quiznos is trying to differentiate from other competitors when it comes to taste,” said Patel.”No one can beat the taste of a Quiznos sandwich and that’s what Quiznos is going to go after.”
