PrimoHoagies: Crafting Iconic Hoagies with a Philly Flair

Established in 1992 in South Philadelphia, PrimoHoagies has grown into a prominent name in the fast-casual dining scene, recognized for its gourmet hoagies crafted with premium ingredients. Since launching its franchise program in 2002, the brand has expanded its footprint and now operates from its headquarters in Westville, New Jersey.

PrimoHoagies is celebrated for its authentic Italian-style sandwiches, featuring high-quality meats and cheeses layered on its signature seeded bread. This focus on flavor and freshness has earned the brand national acclaim, including being named “Best Sandwich Shop in America” by USA Today in both 2023 and 2024.

What sets PrimoHoagies apart is its exclusive lineup of specialty hoagies, offering customers a distinctive taste experience not found at typical sandwich chains. The brand also equips its franchise partners with in-depth training, marketing resources, and operational guidance to maintain high standards and brand consistency across every location.

Training

PrimoHoagies provides a structured and multi-faceted training program to franchisees to ensure consistent operational standards across its locations. The franchisor offers the following types of training:

1. Initial Training Program
   This program includes approximately 120 hours of in-store training and 80 hours of virtual training. Attendance is mandatory for the franchisee or an approved manager, along with one additional individual. If the franchisee is a corporation, at least one owner must also attend parts of the training. This program must be completed at least 15 days before opening the business.
2. Modified Training for Transfers
   If a franchisee is taking over an existing location via transfer, a shorter, modified version of the Initial Training Program is provided. This version may include fewer hours and is also offered to one additional staff member.
3. Food Safety Certification Program
   Prior to opening, the franchisee and all managers must complete a ServSafe® or comparable food safety certification course. This ensures at least one certified employee is always present during business hours.
4. Ongoing and Refresher Training
   The franchisor may require the franchisee or designated staff to attend refresher courses, additional seminars, or other training programs periodically to maintain and elevate operational standards.
5. Manager and Staff Supervision Requirements
   All shifts during the first 30 days of operation must be supervised by someone who has completed the Initial Training Program. Additionally, if the franchisee owns only one location, they must be the on-premises manager unless approved otherwise.

Territory Protection

PrimoHoagies offers a form of territory protection, but it is conditional and not absolute. Each franchisee is assigned a territory, which may vary in size based on demographics, population density, and other factors.

However, if a territory is not formally defined in the Franchise Agreement, the protection is limited solely to the approved location of the franchisee’s restaurant. The franchisor agrees not to license or establish another PrimoHoagies within a franchisee's designated territory as long as it is formally defined.

In addition, PrimoHoagies reserves significant rights, including the ability to market, advertise, and sell through alternative channels like online platforms within the franchisee’s territory.