TORONTO — Firehouse Subs is launching in Australia this year. Retail Food Group (RFG), Australia’s largest multi-brand retail food franchisor, has plans to open 165 restaurants in 10 years, and the first restaurant plans to open in Southeast Queensland in late 2025.
This marks the brand’s entry into the Asia-Pacific region through a development and franchise agreement between a subsidiary of the parent company, Restaurant Brands International (RBI), and RFG. RFG is the owner of popular brands such as Gloria Jeans Coffees, Donut King, Brumby’s Bakery, Beefy’s Pies and Crust Pizza.
“We’re excited to expand Firehouse Subs in the Asia-Pacific region, bringing our iconic sandwiches and rich brand heritage to Australia,” says Thiago Santelmo, president of RBI International. “This is made possible through our partnership with RFG, whose deep local expertise will be instrumental in delivering an outstanding guest experience.”
“I’m convinced that Australians have never tried anything like the quality and flavour of Firehouse Subs. This is a brand that is all about the highest quality sandwiches with exceptional service,” says Matt Marshall, CEO of RFG. “We couldn’t ask for a better partner than RBI, bringing global scale and new market entry expertise.”
RFG is expected to open 15 company-owned restaurants in the next three years, before launching franchising opportunities in year four. The Firehouse Subs brand caters to a range of small- and large-store formats, which provides flexibility in reaching consumers in a wide variety of locations. RFG’s rights to open and franchise stores after 2027 are subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.
