Scott Stuck has been named president of Jon Smith Subs, a sandwich chain that became part of industry juggernaut United Franchise Group (UFG) just last year. This brand, which has nine locations, was looking for a new leader to help it expand, and UFG found just that in the brand's first franchisee. Stuck opened his own location last August in Florida.
Stuck noted the rarity of a franchisee becoming president but said that the more he got into Jon Smith Subs while buying his location, the more he became convinced he could lead the brand going forward. He also noted that being the first franchisee gave him the unique experience of learning exactly what franchisees will have to do in terms of opening, operating and profiting.
The new president started his hospitality career at age 10 as a worker in his father's Big Boy franchise business location. After he left college, Stuck managed a major restaurant chain location to learn more about the industry and then worked with another franchise brand, for which he opened several locations. From there, Stuck partnered in several franchises before becoming the president of a multi-owner franchisee group.
According to Stuck, the sandwich chain is positioned for strong growth, with its premium products and award-winning fries served in an affordable setting. The brand has already sold its first 25 franchise locations across Ohio, Virginia, California, Connecticut and Florida. Another 25 stores are expected to be sold in the US by the year's end, with global expansion planned next.
There are franchise opportunities available right now with this rapidly-growing brand. The initial investment ranges from $250,000 to $400,000. However, according to Stuck, there is financing available for those franchise opportunities that can bring the cost down to $125,000 to $150,000.
