CLEARWATER, FL — Jacksonville-based national chain Firehouse Subs recently celebrated the opening of its 1,400th restaurant with a new location in the Tampa Bay area.
The new restaurant is at 2849 Gulf to Bay Blvd., Unit B, in Clearwater.
“Reaching our 1,400th restaurant is an exciting milestone that showcases the energy and dedication of our franchisees and team members,” Mike Hancock, president, said. “However, this is just the start. Momentum is building quickly, and we’re thrilled about the growth story that will be unfolding for Firehouse Subs over the next several years.”
The Clearwater location is owned and operated by Colin Means, a Tampa-area franchisee whose journey reflects the opportunities Firehouse Subs provides, according to a news release from the company.
He began his career with the brand at 21 years old as a team member. Over the next several years, he worked his way up to general manager before becoming a franchisee in 2020, during the height of the pandemic.
Today, at 32, he owns five Firehouse Subs restaurants across Pinellas County, with a sixth location opening in Seminole this December and plans for further expansion in next year
“Opening the 1,400th Firehouse Subs restaurant is an incredible honor,” Means said. “I’m grateful for the support of my amazing team and our corporate leadership, and I’m excited to keep growing with a brand that truly makes a difference in its communities.”
Founded in 1994 by two former firefighters, Firehouse Subs has locations worldwide
Through its Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, the brand has awarded over $102 million in lifesaving equipment and resources to first responders and public safety organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada.