The SUBWAY chain has been named the number one global franchise opportunity by Entrepreneur magazine in its annual ‘Franchise 500’ rankings - the 17th time in the past 23 years that the franchise has been recognised with the top honour.

With more than 32,000 locations in 90 countries, the chain is poised to become the world’s single largest quick service food brand in terms of number of locations.

In the UK and Ireland the chain has over 1,480 stores and is still looking to expand further. The brand opened over 200 stores in the UK and Ireland in 2009, providing employment for over 2,000 people and filling 240,000sq ft of prime retail space.

“The strong support systems we have in place and the strength of the brand has helped us grow to almost 1,500 stores in the UK and Ireland,” says Neil Black, development agent for SUBWAY. “Being recognised as the number one global franchise opportunity is testament to the hard work and entrepreneurialism of the SUBWAY franchisees, who are committed to making their businesses work and represent hundreds of success stories throughout the UK and Ireland.

“Coming out on top of the Franchise 500 list is an achievement. Doing it 17 times is an indication of the amazing accomplishments and vast opportunities that define the SUBWAY chain.”