Port of Subs® Opens New Mesa Location as Regional Developer Momentum Fuels National Growth
Your Neighborhood Sandwich Shop™ Sees Rising National Recognition and Continued Expansion
DENVER, CO. // FranchisePR.com // March 12, 2026 – Port of Subs, the neighborhood sandwich franchise serving up fresh, made-to-order subs, is continuing its disciplined expansion with the February 3 opening of a new restaurant in Mesa, Arizona. The location marks the first for Regional Developers Shane and Kirstin Shaw, and represents the beginning of their 15-unit development commitment across key Arizona markets.
Building on Port of Subs’ established presence in Arizona, the Mesa opening marks the start of the Shaws’ long-term growth plans in the state. Their launch reflects the strength of the brand’s Regional Developer franchise model, empowering experienced local operators to build multi-unit territories while preserving the community-first culture that defines Port of Subs. With backgrounds in sales, leadership, and restaurant operations, and a shared commitment to giving back, the Shaws are well positioned to drive sustainable expansion and deepen the brand’s presence throughout the state.
“We see tremendous opportunity with Port of Subs, and that starts with the strength of the brand itself,” said Shane Shaw. “The fresh, made-to-order product and community-first culture immediately resonated with us. It’s a concept built on a strong foundation, and one we’re confident we can grow thoughtfully across Arizona.”
The Mesa milestone comes as Port of Subs continues to gain national recognition for its development strategy, climbing to No. 228 on the 2026 Entrepreneur Franchise 500® list, up from No. 241 last year. The upward movement reflects the brand’s operational modernization, strengthened franchise systems, and disciplined, market-driven approach to expansion. As Port of Subs’ network of Regional Developers continues to grow, the ranking serves as further validation of the company’s scalable model and long-term growth trajectory.
“Moments like this reflect the progress we’re making across the entire system,” said Healey Mendicino, President and CEO of Port of Subs. “As we expand our Regional Developer program and climb in national rankings, we’re proving that Port of Subs is a legacy brand built for its next era of franchise growth, scaling strategically while remaining deeply rooted in the communities we serve.”
Known for its sliced-fresh, made-to-order subs prepared right in front of guests, Port of Subs has built a loyal following as a neighborhood sandwich shop that people can count on. From fully customizable hot and cold subs to hearty portions made with quality ingredients, the brand focuses on meals that feel familiar, satisfying, and dependable, whether stopping in for a quick lunch or feeding a group.
Founded in 1972, Port of Subs has served communities for over five decades as a trusted neighborhood sandwich shop. Known for its sliced-fresh, made-to-order subs prepared right in front of guests, the brand has built a loyal following rooted in quality, customization, and consistency. Today, that foundation is supported by modernized systems, experienced leadership, and a Regional Developer model designed for scalable yet local multi-unit growth in markets with significant opportunity. By combining a dependable guest experience with disciplined territory development, Port of Subs continues to expand while staying true to the community values that define the brand.
To learn more, please visit www.portofsubs.com.
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About Port of Subs®
Port of Subs® has been slicing fresh and serving communities for more than five decades. Founded on a commitment to quality sandwich making and superior customer service, the brand is known for its premium meats and cheeses and customizable, made-to-order menu offerings. With more than 120 locations across the U.S. and a growing franchise development pipeline, Port of Subs continues to evolve through innovative products, convenient technology, and a commitment to being Your Neighborhood Sandwich Shop™. For more information, please visit www.portofsubs.com.For franchising opportunities, visit www.franchising.portofsubs.com.
SOURCE Port of Subs
