Subway Closes 631 U.S. Locations, Marks Eighth Straight Year of Decline

Subway's number of U.S. locations has fallen below 20,000 for the first time in two decades after the closure of 631 domestic stores in 2024, marking the eighth consecutive year of net losses in its home market. The chain, once peaking at over 27,000 U.S. outlets, now operates 19,502 domestically, reflecting a broader shift in consumer preferences and economic pressures such as inflation. Despite these challenges, Subway remains the largest U.S. restaurant chain by store count and continues to expand internationally, with its global footprint growing for the second straight year to 37,000 locations. The company says it is actively optimizing its domestic presence through a 'strategic, data-driven approach,' focusing on locations, store formats, and franchisee partnerships to ensure a consistent customer experience. Recent promotional efforts, such as the $6.99 Meal Deal, failed to boost sales and were quickly withdrawn, underscoring difficulties in attracting value-seeking consumers. Employees in some regions reported being caught off guard by sudden closures, reflecting the abrupt impact on staff and local communities.