Once-Popular Sandwich Chain Quietly Shuts Nearly 2,000 Locations

Subway has endured a series of scandals over the years, including the downfall of its longtime advertising pitchman, who was later jailed on child pornography and sex-related charges.

Blimpie has quietly closed nearly 2,000 locations and now operates fewer than 100 stores across the United States. (Photo: Blimpie America's Sub Shop)

Despite that episode, Subway survived and moved on, Daniel Kline reported for TheStreet.

A rival chain was less fortunate. Blimpie has quietly closed nearly 2,000 locations and now operates fewer than 100 stores across the United States. The chain once appeared poised to capitalize on Subway’s troubles, but instead entered a long decline.

Blimpie traces its roots to Hoboken, New Jersey, where it was founded in 1964 by three partners who borrowed $2,500 to open their first shop.

The brand was modeled on Mike’s Submarines—later known as Jersey Mike’s—and sold a similar lineup of sandwiches, The Takeout reported.

After an ownership change in 2001, Blimpie began to contract. Poor management decisions, overexpansion, and failed experiments in convenience stores, kiosks, and carts contributed to its decline.

Kahala Brands acquired Blimpie in 2006, but the chain continued to struggle, closing more than 1,000 locations between 2001 and 2011, Food Republic reported.