Famous for their hot, fresh made-to-order Philly Steak Sandwiches, Charley’s Grilled Subs has more than 400 locations worldwide. Founded in 1986, more than 90 percent of all Charley’s Grilled Subs restaurants are run by franchisees. The Franchise Hound had the opportunity to speak with one of those franchisees – Cornell Irons of the Reno, Nevada location. He shared with us his transition from a military career to a franchise owner and the challenges he has faced along the way.
Franchise Hound: You were in the military for a number of years, what made you transition to a franchise?
Cornell Irons: I always wanted to be an entrepreneur but I didn’t know what type of business I wanted to open. As a teenager I worked in the restaurant business and enjoyed cooking. When I left the military I started looking into franchises. Brand name was important to me. When you start your own company you have branding issues at the beginning and it’s difficult not already being a vested interest in that particular area or industry.
Read full interview here.