Lenny's Sub Shop featured on Patch.com

Lenny's Sub Shop was recently featured on Patch.com in an article titled "Lenny's Sub Shop: All About Service". Patch.com reporter Melissa Kory compiled an article about the enjoyable experience she had when she attended the VIP opening of the Lenny’s Sub Shop location in Marietta. Franchisees AJ and Sonia Singh discussed that the quality of the food and the service is part of the reason they were drawn to the franchise in the first place, and that providing a great experience for their customers is their top priority. Click here for the full article or begin reading below.

Lenny's Sub Shop: All About Service

by Melissa Kory

This week's Bites Nearby is a little out of the ordinary, primarily because I didn't have time this week to enjoy a sit-down meal but also because there is a new sub shop in Marietta.

That being said I bring you Lenny's Sub Shop near Walmart off Cobb Parkway. This Lenny's opened on Wednesday and, for those interested, is now hiring.

(Read more)

Lenny's Sub Shop mentioned in Tuscaloosa News

Lenny's Sub Shop was mentioned in the Tuscaloosa News concerning Lenny’s reopening in Tuscaloosa on Thursday, October 17. The mention was published online on November 13, 2011. The mention says that Tuscaloosa Lenny’s was rebuilt from the ground up after it was destroyed by the tornado in April and that the ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on November 18 at 10:30 a.m. The mention also includes the store’s business hours as well as the dine-in, drive-through and delivery service options. Click here to view the article or view an excerpt below.

Regions, Lenny's to reopen this week

Lenny’s was rebuilt from the ground up after being destroyed in the tornado. The Memphis, Tenn.-based sandwich shop chain, which offers dine-in, drive-through and delivery service, will hold a ribbon-cutting at 10:30 a.m. Friday.

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Shop featued in Memphis Daily News

Lenny's Sub Shop was recently featured in the Memphis Daily News in an article titled "Lenny's first drive-thru expects 30 pct. Uptick annually." Reporter Sarah Baker spoke with James Kelly, Lenny’s franchisee in Memphis, to find out the business strategy behind developing a drive thru location in Memphis. Kelly, the owner of 10 locations in the area, said that he wanted to reinvest in this location for his customers in order to make it more convenient. Click here to read more.

Lenny’s first drive-thru expects 30 pct. uptick annually 
By Sarah Baker

Move over roast beef, here comes the Philly cheesesteak.

As of Tuesday, Sept. 27, the former Arby’s at 4740 Showcase at Perkins and I-240 is officially Memphis’ first drive-thru Lenny’s. There model comes after the sub sandwich shops’ drive-thru locations in both Arkansas and Mississippi.

The idea came about when franchisee James Kelly, who currently has 10 locations in the Memphis area, noticed a loyal following paired with decreasing traffic at his Mall of Memphis store. He calls that the “people side” of the equation.

(Read more)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in Memphis Business Journal

Lenny's Sub Shop was recently featured in the Memphis Business Journal in an article titled “Top-performing Lenny’s Sub Shop operator expects revenue boost with drive-through.” The article was built from an in-depth interview with James Kelly about his expansion into a new location with a drive thru. The reporter notes that James Kelly and his partners are strong Lenny’s operators who have extensive experience with the brand in Memphis. This is great brand awareness for the new location and for the continued expansion of Lenny’s through its headquartered market, Memphis. Click here to read more.

Top-performing Lenny’s Sub Shop operator expects revenue boost with drive-through 
by Michael Sheffield

Memphis is getting its first drive-through Lenny's Sub Shop location, thanks to a local franchisee that is one of Lenny’s top performers.

Kelly Green Restaurants LLC, which also opened a location in Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in September, is opening the drive-through Lenny’s to replace its original store on American Way.

(Read more)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in Commercial Appeal

Lenny's Sub Shop was recent featured in Commercial Appeal in an article titled "First drive-thru Lenny's in Memphis area opens". James Dowd, reporter with the Commercial Appeal, spoke with James Kelly, franchisee and co-owner of 10 Memphis area Lenny’s locations, about bringing the very first drive-thru location to Memphis. When the former Arby’s came up for sale, Kelly and his partners jumped on the opportunity to develop the same Lenny’s Sub Shop, but with an added bonus: a drive-thru. Lenny’s lovers can now order at the drive-thru at 4740 Showcase Blvd. Click here to view the article in its entirety.

First drive-thru Lenny's in Memphis opens 

By James Dowd 

For Memphis entrepreneur James Kelly, partner at Kelly Green Restaurants, tweaking an already finely tuned business machine doesn't just make sense -- it make dollars and cents. 
 
Kelly is a franchisee for Lenny's Sub Shop and operates 10 of the stores in Memphis. And now he's become the first local franchise holder to launch a drive-thru Lenny's, which is located in a former Arby's at 4740 Showcase Blvd.

(Read more)

Create Our Next Sub and Win Big!

Some of the best ideas come from outside of a company itself: the customers. Using this philosophy, we are asking our fans to create what they think would be the perfect sub. A promotion such as this ensures that the new menu item, whatever it may be, will be a fan favorite from the start. And with the prizes offered, we have certainly not seen any shortage of great ideas coming in. During the first week of the contest, we were averaging about one entry per minute!

The grand prize winner will receive $5,000 while the 2nd and 3rd place winners will win $3,000 and $1,000, respectively. Submissions are open until October 15th, and the winners will be announced on October 31st. Enter at http://lennys.com/newsub

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in ASU Herald

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in an article in the ASU Herald, titled “Lenny’s Sub Shop opens near campus.” The article discusses the recent opening of Lenny’s Sub Shop in Jonesboro, Ark., by entrepreneurs and longtime friends Lawson Fisher and Tripp Williams. The pair decided to open in Jonesboro to target the college crowd and hope to interact with the local community. Since they are located so close to campus, the pair talked to football coach Hugh Freeze at the university and were given jerseys to decorate the shop. Click here to view full article.

Lenny's Sub Shop opens near campus
By: Michaela Kaberline

Long-time best friends Tripp Williams and Lawson Fisher franchised Lenny's Sub Shop in Jonesboro after the two became business partners about three years ago when they decided to jump into the Lenny's business by opening their first store in downtown Memphis, Tenn.

Williams and Fisher own four Lenny's in Memphis and one in Little Rock. They decided to open a sub shop in Jonesboro to cater to the college crowd.

"We knew we had to get over here and open a store," Fisher said. "With our location, we are minutes away from the ASU campus and we really wanted to target college students the most."

The first Lenny's Sub Shop was founded by Len Moore in 1998. In 2004, he sold a majority of the ownership to George Alvord and a group of private investors.

According to Lenny's website, Moore decided to franchise Lenny's and moved to Houston, Texas to open a sub shop there.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Tripp Williams – Multi-Unit

Franchisee Since: 2008

Franchise Locations: 6 Lenny's Locations

1. 11401 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, Ark. 72211
2. 1699 Stadium Blvd., Jonesboro, Ark. 72401
3. 153 Main St., Memphis, Tenn. 38103
4. 5643 Shelby Dr., Memphis, Tenn. 38141
5. 1664 Sycamore View Rd., Memphis, Tenn. 37134
6. 8265 U.S. Highway 51, Memphis, Tenn. 38053
   

Q: Where are you from?

A: I am originally from Memphis, Tenn. I grew up there and attended college at The University of Memphis.

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A: Before becoming involved with Lenny’s Sub Shop, I worked at FedEx for 10 years. My business partner and best friend since sixth grade, Lawson Fisher, worked with a communications firm for the same length of time before we decided to go into business together.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A: Lawson and I knew of the product because we were customers, but we also had a relationship with the owners of Lenny’s corporate. When we decided to get into the business, we acquired five stores right off the bat. It was something we really jumped into, and we have continued with that level of enthusiasm ever since. My wife, Cris, is also an owner and operator of the locations, and we all have taken on a store that we manage ourselves.

Q: What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A: It’s great because we’re able to run our own business, but we have the backing of a big company. With Lenny’s headquartered in Memphis, and our personal relationship with its owner, the franchise has this great family atmosphere. It makes it that much more fun working with Lenny’s, having that feeling that you’re working with family.

Q: What skills from your previous jobs have helped you in your business?

A: Lawson and I were both in the customer service industry, so we each knew how to handle the customer relationship. But, it wasn’t the food industry, which we discovered is a lot different. As far as our customer relationships, our backgrounds gave us a good start and while I was at FedEx I couldn’t help but learn about business and how things are run at a strong company.

Q: How has the economy affected your business?

A: Although some aspects have made it harder, overall the economic situation has benefited our business. In one respect, it’s really competitive to secure a loan from a bank right now, but on the other hand a lot of people are opting for less expensive dining options. We got into the business before the recession hit, and even though things have been hard we have been able to grow each of our restaurants through that time.

Q: What obstacles have you overcome to get where you are today with your business?

A: The biggest obstacle we’ve overcome so far has been the shock of doing business in the food industry. This industry is one where there can be a lot of employee turnover, so we had to learn how to manage that and how to find good people and hold on to them. Once we were able to do that, we have seen great success.

Q: What makes your business different?

A: Although there are a lot of sub shops out there, I really don’t feel like we have many competitors. We provide a product that you don’t get at any other sub shop. Every person who walks through the door is getting a fresh sub — we slice it right there for them, or we grill it right there. They’re getting a half-pound of meat and cheese on their sandwich, and we take care of the guest in every way possible. All around, it’s just a very different experience than you’ll get anywhere else.

Q: How does your business connect with the community?

A: In all of our locations, we try to do some sort of giving back. In Memphis, we have provided boxed lunches for various golf tournaments and fundraisers. In our newest location in Jonesboro, Ark., we’re just five minutes down the road from Arkansas State University, so we’re making it a priority to reach out to the university. We are looking forward to doing something for the students there.

Q: What are your expansion or development plans?

A: We really think that Jonesboro, population wise, could hold another two to three stores. However, we’ll have to see how this first location goes.

ABOUT LENNY’S SUB SHOPS:
Since the beginning, Lenny's commitment to quality and attention to detail has gone into every restaurant and sub sandwich. This dedication has helped Lenny's to become one of the fastest growing sub sandwich chains in the country. Today, Lenny's Sub Shop continues to expand throughout the United States by offering franchise opportunities. Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks & The Deli Fresh Experience™ are reasons why our loyal guests say they prefer a Lenny’s sub hands down to our national competition. Why? Lenny's puts back what has been missing in the sub sandwich business - More Food, More Taste, More Personality!® For more information, visit www.lennys.com.

Lenny's Sub Shop featured on KAIT8.com

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured on the Jonesboro, Ark., local ABC affiliate’s website, KAIT8.com, announcing the upcoming grand opening on Aug. 23 for franchisees, Tripp Williams and Lawson Fisher. The pair are bringing the first Lenny’s Sub Shop restaurant to Jonesboro, just down the street from Arkansas State University. The first 25 people in line at the 1699 Stadium Blvd. restaurant on grand opening day will receive free Lenny’s for one year. Click here to view feature.

Free subs for a year!

By: Patricia Davis

Lenny’s Sub Shop is coming to Jonesboro.

The restaurant, located at 1699 Stadium Boulevard, will have its grand opening on Tuesday, August 23.

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Show featured in The Destin Log

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in The Destin Log, in an article titled “SANDWICH SUMMIT: Lenny’s to host discovery day for potential owners.” The article features Lenny’s president, Brent Alvord, who discussed the advantages of investing in a sub franchise during a trying economic time period. On Aug. 9, Lenny’s will host a discovery day in Destin, Fla., for anyone interested in becoming a franchisee of the brand, giving an opportunity for entrepreneurs across the Southeast to learn what it takes to run one of the chain’s restaurants. Alvord said the purpose is to build brand awareness, and to let entrepreneurs know that this avenue of business ownership will allow them to “make money while having fun interacting with guests and building relationships.”

SANDWICH SUMMIT: Lenny's to host discovery day for potential owners
By: Katy Houghton

Lenny’s Sub Shop chain president Brent Alvord will be in Destin to personally show people another way to invest and earn money.

“In these times, people are still worried about the economy with the stock market going up and down,” he said. “But there is the option of jumping into a chain franchise and earn a 28 percent return on an investment versus 2 percent in a savings account.”

Boasting authentic Philly cheese steaks and the deli fresh experience, Lenny’s Sub Shop will host a discovery day at TOPS’L Beach and Racquet Resort on Aug. 9 for anyone interested in becoming a sub shop franchisee from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in The Forsyth News

Lenny's Sub Shop was recently featured in The Forsyth News in an article titled, “Businesses encouraged to join fight against cancer.” The article discusses franchisee Bruce Longmore’s role in providing food donations for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk in Atlanta. Click here to view the full article!

Business encouraged to join fight against cancer

By: Jennifer Sammi

John and Torri Westmoreland have been making signs for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk in Atlanta for nine years.

The couple, owners of In-Depth Signs & Designs in Cumming, thought it was a great way to give back to the community.

While the society works to help those suffering from leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, the Westmorelands always pictured the blood cancers impacting children.

Then John Westmoreland was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease.

(READ MORE)

Lenny's Social Media Update: Every Lenny's Lover's Voice is Heard

Since the creation of the Lenny's Sub Shop Facebook page, Lenny's has provided online experiences unmatched by others in the segment. Lenny's has rolled out countless social media initiatives and programs, back-boned by the success of their weekly, exclusive social media deal, Social Wednesdays. Through these initiatives the page has grown from 10,000 fans in January of this year to 57,000+ fans today. Through this explosive growth comes more interactions.

On a daily basis, an average of 5-6 guests go off the common status update threads and post comments, critiques and praises on the Lenny's wall. Each of these comments is responded to by Lenny's and handled with care. If one walks into a Lenny's restaurant, they receive tremendous customer service and now that same service is being delivered on a social landscape.

Below is an example of the interaction between brand and consumer on the Lenny's Facebook Page. If you are not yet a fan of Lenny's on Facebook, be sure to click here.

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in Bossier Press-Tribune

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in the Bossier Press-Tribune in an article about the first Lenny’s location to open in Louisiana. Chris Procell opened his Lenny’s Sub Shop in Shreveport recently after falling in love with the brand while he was in college in Mississippi. The recent law school graduate enlisted the help of his father to open the franchise location, and the pair plan to bring 10 to the Louisiana area in the next decade. In the article, Lenny’s Sub Shop president, Brent Alvord, also talked about going into the sub business with his father when they acquired the franchise from its original founder in 2004. A portion of the article is below and it can be read in its entirety by clicking here.

National chain opens local shop

The first time Chris Procell of Homer took a bite of the #6 Deluxe Combo at Lenny’s Sub Shop, it was truly love at first bite.

That day in Jackson, Mississippi changed the course of his life and has brought a national sub shop chain to the Ark-La-Tex.

After receiving a degree in economics from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Procell decided to pursue a law degree at the Mississippi College Law School. That’s when he first discovered his love for the Deluxe Combo with turkey, roast beef and bacon.

After that visit, Procell said he ate at Lenny’s Sub Shop once or twice a week for the next three years, ordering the same sandwich every time.

When he was finished with law school in 2010, he returned to Louisiana. However, something was missing.

“I missed the product,” Procell said. “Next thing I knew, I was on a plane to Memphis and signing a franchise agreement.”

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in The Times in Shreveport

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in The Times in Shreveport, in an article titled “NEW ON THE BLOCK: Lenny’s to open first Louisiana location.” Local franchisee, Chris Procell, discussed opening the restaurant with his father, Melvin, and the pair’s plans to expand throughout the state. The first location, in Shreveport on Youree Drive, will be followed by locations in the cities of Bossier, Natchitoches, Minden, Ruston, West Monroe and Monroe. A recent law school graduate, Chris Procell fell in love with the Lenny’s brand while in law school at Mississippi College in Jackson, Miss., and decided to forego a career in law so he could bring the sub chain to his home state. Click here to view the full article!

NEWONTHEBLOCK: Lenny's to open first Louisiana store
By Bobbie Clark

Lenny's Sub Shop will open its first restaurant in Louisiana on Thursday.

The father-son duo of Chris and Melvin Procell have taken on the responsibility of growing the chain in Louisiana. The first shop will be located on Youree Drive in Shreveport.

The Procells then plan to expand to include Bossier, Natchitoches, Minden, Ruston, West Monroe and Monroe.

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in The Commercial Appeal

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in the Commercial Appeal, in a brief that highlighted its sponsorship of the “Memphis Rising Relief Benefit” held to raise money for victims of the recent flooding. The concert featured performances by Breaking Point, Ingram Hill, Sore Eyes, and several other bands. Lenny’s Sub Shop also donated several items to an online auction held to raise funds for the flood victims. Click here to view the full article!

Mississippi River recedes; back below flood stage for 1st time since April 26
By Tom Charlier

The flood of 2011 flowed further into history Friday as the Mississippi River -- after a monthlong siege of Memphis -- finally retreated back below flood stage.

The river dipped below 34 feet on the Memphis gauge for the first time since April 26, although forecasters warned that it could rise again to around flood stage within two weeks.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: David Barksdale, franchisee of Cool Springs, Tennessee

Franchisee Since: 2004
Franchise Locations: Cool Springs, Tenn.; Jackson, Tenn.

David Barksdale was first introduced to the Lenny’s Sub Shop brand while working in the commercial real estate industry in Jackson, Tenn. As a commercial real estate owner, one of Barksdale’s tenants was a Lenny’s restaurant owner, who was relocating and looking for someone to sell the business to. In order to keep the restaurant in his building, Barksdale purchased the restaurant and made his entrance into the world of restaurant ownership.

That was about seven years ago, and since then Barksdale has learned a lot about the restaurant business and Lenny’s Sub Shop, opening another location in Jackson, Tenn., three years after he bought his first, and buying an existing location in Cool Springs, Tenn., in early 2011.

What attracted you to Lenny’s?
Before I bought my first store, I met with the corporate office and I felt like there was a really good staff in place. Lenny’s was a relatively new franchise back then, and was still in the process of growing, so this was an opportunity for me to kind of be on the ground floor of a growing operation. I realized that in that type of situation I’d be able to get in the market and do things I couldn’t do with a brand that had been around for awhile.

Once I got into the business and I started to look at the numbers — the sales being generated — I realized how much potential there was in these stores. The capital and the inventory outlays were very attractive, which got me thinking about opening my second location. Aside from the business aspect, I really enjoy being able to interact with customers. It’s nice when you get to know them on a first name basis. That’s probably the most rewarding part.

What are your growth and development plans?
Right now I’m still focused on the store transfer in Cool Springs, where we’ve just about gotten everything where we want it to be in terms of staffing. I spend about two days there each week, working to make sure things are going smoothly. In the future, I’d like to open stores in Williamson County or Davidson County and possibly even Nashville.

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in QSR

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in a QSR article called “Get Your Favorite Lenny’s Sub Through Your Smartphone.” The article discusses Lenny’s latest interactive consumer element by launching their mobile ordering app. Brent Alvord, President of Lenny’s Sub Shop, discussed how consumers across all demographics are using technology as a “personal concierge,” which is why they wanted to offer them the ease of mobile ordering. Brent also discussed how the app was developed to coordinate with their unique point-of-sale system and how Lenny’s is utilizing social media to make consumers aware of the app. Click here to view the article in its entirety!

Get Your Favorite Lenny's Sub Through Your Smartphone

To provide another way for its customers to interact with and order from its menu, sandwich chain Lenny’s Sub Shop recently launched a new mobile ordering app.

The app, available now on iTunes and Android Marketplace, lets customers order pick-up from any of Lenny’s 150 shops.

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured on Nooga.com

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured on Nooga.com, highlighting the restaurant brand’s nationwide launch of its mobile ordering app on May 9. Brent Alvord, president of Lenny’s Sub Shop, explained that the company has always been progressive in terms of technology and that mobile applications are becoming a trend in the industry. Ultimately, the move will help drive sales and provides another way to enhance business, Alvord said. Fans of Lenny’s Sub Shop in Chattanooga, Tenn., said the app will be especially helpful when picking up to-go orders because it will decrease time waiting in line. Click here to view the full feature!

Lenny's Sub Shop to offer app for mobile ordering
By Chloé Morrison

Soon customers at Lenny's Sub Shop will have the option to order via smart phone.

"We've always been a very progressive company in terms of technology," President of Lenny's Brent Alvord said. "I think mobile applications are becoming a big trend. Our particular technology is much faster in getting the order done."

Officials said that beginning May 9, instead of standing in line at the restaurant, customers can order via cell phone and the meal will be ready when the customer arrives at the nearest shop.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Jim Hill, franchisee of Olive Branch, MS

Franchisee Since: 2004
Location: Olive Branch, MS

Before Franchising, what were you involved with?
Before I signed on with Lenny’s, I had retired from another company. When I retired I started looking for something else to do and that’s when I decided to go into the restaurant business.

How did you learn about the brand?
I spent about 18 months to two years researching what I wanted to do. I researched different businesses available and franchising seemed to be a good way to go if you want to start your own business. Food has always been a big part of my life. I like to cook a lot, and my feeling is that people are going to continue to eat in good times or bad. Lenny’s was still pretty small when I bought my store, but I ate at the restaurant a few times and talked to a few people and ended up deciding to buy an existing store.

Why is this brand and a franchise system the right fit for you?
In the past I was involved in much larger operations, so running a business has come naturally to me. Being in this kind of business has made me tap into a part of my personality where I can be social and know everyone by their first name and have a one-on-one interaction with my customers. The interactivity of the brand is something that made this a good fit for me.

What are your future goals? Development plans?
I’m keeping my eyes peeled for opportunities. I want to make sure the economy is right before I do anything, but I’m hoping everything falls into place so that I can open a new store by next year.

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in The Commercial Appeal

Lenny’s Sub Shop was recently featured in The Commercial Appeal for the launch of its mobile ordering application, which can be found on iTunes and the Android Marketplace. Customers can download the mobile application and order their meal from their phone to cut down on line wait time or to place bulk orders, the article stated. Brent Alvord, president and chief executive of Lenny’s Sub Shop, said in the article that the “new mobile ordering system will allow time-crunched customers to quickly and easily pick up their food so they don’t have to choose between their day-to-day obligations and their desire for a freshly made meal.” Click here to view the article in its entirety!

Memphis-based Lenny's Sub chain launches app to allow ordering by smartphone
By James Dowd

Hankering for a chicken salad sub to go?

Well you’re in luck because now there’s an app for that.

Memphis-based Lenny’s Sub Shop has launched a mobile application for smartphones that allows customers to place orders at any of the company’s 150 franchises. The free app is available for free download from iTunes and the Android Marketplace. There is a 25-cent convenience fee per transaction.

(Read More)

Lenny’s Sub Shop Launches Mobile Ordering App

Customers at Lenny’s Sub Shop now have one more means of ordering their favorite sub sandwich from the 150-unit franchise. Beginning May 9, the brand that has fully embraced social media will further enhance the customer experience by launching its mobile ordering application.

Instead of standing in a long line, patrons can simply download the Lenny’s Sub Shop app, order a meal on their cell phone and have it ready when they arrive at the nearest location.

The Lenny’s Sub Shop App is available on iTunes and the Android Marketplace, allowing customers to instantaneously order a customized sub sandwich through the app powered by splickit, inc. Ordering from an iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch or Android smart phone is simply “the easiest way to order and pay.”

“We’ve listened to our brand loyalists and we know this is something they have wanted for a long time,” said Brent Alvord, chief executive of Lenny’s Sub Shop. “Our new mobile ordering system will allow time-crunched customers to quickly and easily pick up their food so they don’t have to choose between their day-to-day obligations and their desire for a freshly made meal.”

Lenny’s is one of only a handful of national restaurant brands to launch a mobile ordering application, but industry experts predict 2011 will be the year branded apps take on roles greater than just games and loyalty programs.

Of the 22 percent of quick-service restaurants with mobile applications as of December 2010, just 22.7 percent allowed customers to order, according to eMarketer. And a recent Nielsen Company survey found that among all users who download mobile apps, 25 percent use a dining or restaurant app.

“This is something more and more customers are looking for, and we’re excited to be on the frontend of this growing trend,” Alvord said. “The combination of online ordering and mobile applications has not yet been widely implemented, but we can see that it is the wave of the future and we’re ready to provide that service to our loyal customers.”

ABOUT LENNY’S SUB SHOPS
Since our beginning, Lenny's commitment to quality and attention to detail has gone into every restaurant and sub sandwich. This dedication has helped Lenny's to become one of the fastest growing sub sandwich chains in the country. Today, Lenny's Sub Shop continues to expand throughout the United States by offering franchise opportunities. Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks & The Deli Fresh Experience™ are reasons why our loyal guests say they prefer a Lenny’s sub hands down to our national competition. Why? Lenny's puts back what has been missing in the sub sandwich business - More Food, More Taste, More Personality!® For more information, visit www.lennys.com.

Lenny's Sub Shop featured on San Antonio Living

Bob Orrison from San Antonio was featured this morning on San Antonio Living in a segment entitled, “Making the Perfect Sandwich.” In this 5 minute segment, Bob shared how Lenny’s Sub Shop makes the best sandwich every time by using the freshest products from baked bread daily to freshly sliced meats and cheeses all topped off with Lenny’s signature pickles and hot pepper relish. Bob shared with the host as well as the audience how Lenny’s piles high the quality ingredients to ensure the best taste for every guest. Click here to view the full segment, or check out the video below!

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in Tulsa World

Lenny’s Sub Shop was featured today in the Tulsa World. The article focused on local owner Chris Brown. Brown spoke about his experience of bringing Lenny’s Sub Shop back to Tulsa for the first time in 2003. Also, Brown fell in love with the brand in Memphis. When he moved to Tulsa with his mother, Ginny, they opened their first location in 2003. The atmosphere is in a friendly and welcoming building with TV’s and sitting space. Most importantly of all, the food is delicious with lots of options and the most popular item on the menu is by far the Philly Cheese Steak hot sub that accounts for 40% of their total sales. Click here to view the full article!

Lenny's Sub Shop satisfies with tasty subs, friendly service
By SCOTT CHERRY

Chris Brown said he got hooked on the food at Lenny's Sub Shop when he lived in Memphis, Tenn., where a man named Len Moore founded the restaurant in 1979.

"I wanted to move back to Tulsa where a lot of my family lives and was looking for a franchise business to start here," Brown said. "I knew I liked Lenny's a lot in Memphis, so I looked into what it would take to put one in Tulsa."

(Read More)

Lenny's Sub Shop featured in USA Today

Lenny's Sub Shop was recently featured in an article written in USA Today on the front page of the Money section, called "Will you be my (virtual) Valentine?" Lenny’s Sub Shop will share its love for its fans this Valentine’s Day in a BIG way. Setting up for the largest restaurant Facebook giveaway ever, Lenny’s Sub Shop will give each new and existing Facebook fan a free half-pound sub starting on Valentine’s Day for an entire week! Feel the love here!

Marketers use social media for Valentine promotions

It wasn't that long ago that couples ached to get physical on Valentine's Day. These days, many would rather get virtual.

Some of the biggest brands are turning to social media for Valentine's Day. Major marketers from Mattel (MAT) to Victoria's Secret (LTD) to CBS (CBS) are pushing holiday hype on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

(Read More)

Lenny's Subs featured in The Daily Citizen

The Daily Citizen featured a profile entitled,"Lenny’s Sub Shop offers fresh food, clean environment," which published in the Sunday edition of the paper on January 9. It was written by Luke Jones and built from an interview and photo shoot with Bo Hill, local owner and operator of Lenny's Sub Shop in Searcy, AR. Bo discusses everything from how he got started with Lenny's nearly 8.5 years ago to what sets Lenny's apart from other sub shops to the loyalty of his customers.

Lenny's Sub Shop offers fresh food, clean environment

Q: Talk a little about your background. Where did you grow up, how you ended up in Searcy, if/where you went to school, etc.

A: I grew up in Tupelo, Miss. Graduated from Harding University in 1987. I have two daughters. I lived in Nashville and Memphis after college before moving back to Searcy in February of 2002. Before I opened Lenny’s I was responsible for the sales and marketing for a construction company in Memphis.

Q: Is this your first business? If not, tell us about your previous experiences.

A: Yes, this is my first business.

Q: Tell us a little about what your business does and what makes it special.

A: I think part of the Lenny’s allure is our commitment to our customers. They’ve told us time and time again how much they appreciate that their favorite items haven't changed since the beginning. Our Authentic Philly Cheesesteak is still the most popular item, and our guests can still have the customized experience and delicious food that they love, every time they come into the shop. Our large subs have always had a whole pound of freshly sliced meats, and we offer dining services that other quick-casual restaurants don't. When you place your order at the Lenny's counter, you can watch while the Lenny's crew member slices your deli meat fresh to order, and our authentic Philly Cheesesteaks are always cooked fresh and served hot off the grill. I’ve always strived to make our sub shop the cleanest and friendliest place to eat in Searcy.

Q: What was your inspiration to start this business?

A: I had been a customer of Lenny’s in Memphis for several years before moving to Searcy. I loved the food and the concept and believed I could make the best sub in town. So far so good! We have won Best of the Best subs for the last several years.

Q: Who are your main competitors?

A: Anyone who sells food. There’s a lot of competition out there, especially from much larger chains, but I think our product is truly the best around and our dedication to top-notch customer service makes us stand out from the crowd.

Q: Why did you pick Searcy?

A: I attended Harding University as a college student, and I love the area. I wanted to provide the students at Harding with a delicious but quick and casual restaurant option, a place where they can hang out and eat great.

Q: Talk about the physical structure of the business. How many square feet? How was the interior design chosen? Do you incorporate parking? etc.

A: We have 2000 sq ft. Our floor plan and furniture are designed by our corporate office.

Q: Was it a big investment for you?

A: Yes, it took seven years to pay for it.

Q: Who is your target demographic?

A: Well, our portions are large and we want to attract those who want the best sub they can find. We’re especially popular with college students and families with young children.

Q: How are you reaching them (I.E. advertising)?

A: Mostly direct mail and delivering coupons door to door. At times we do radio and newspaper insert. We also do College Night every Monday, where all students can take advantage of our “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” deal. Also, Wednesday nights attract lots of families because kids eat free every Wednesday night!

Q: How has business been so far?

A: Good. I still enjoy every day.

Q: What has surprised you most about the process?

A: How caring our customers have been. Many have become really good friends.

Q: Talk about your biggest challenge or hardship so far.

A: Like most small business owners, times are tough during a recession, but our loyal customers have stuck by us and, as I’ve said, our dedication to quality in both what we serve and how we serve it have kept business going strong.

Q: Do you have any advice for entrepreneurs?

A: Yes, get all the advice you can, get all the council you can from people with experience in and out of the field you are interested in. Be sure you are financially stable from the get-go, because while most good businesses will be profitable in the long run, it can often take awhile to get things off the ground and pay off your initial investments.

Lenny's Spotlighted on WUVA

Recently, Lenny's Sub Shop was featured on Tuscaloosa's WUVA. The news clip discusses the winter weather that is blanketing the southeast and how Lenny's Sub Shop's business has increased by 75% during the spring semester. The video is included below and Lenny's segment is located at the 4 minute mark:

Chattanooga Times Free Press Article featured on Allbusiness.com

The article "Newcomer finds niche in sub shop," which was featured in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, was featured on Allbusiness.com. To see the posting, click here.

Newcomer finds niche in sub shop
By ELLIS SMITH

When Kuntal "Kevin" Patel, an immigrant from India working at his cousin's gas station in Chattanooga, heard in 2009 that the Lenny's Sub Shop on Gunbarrel Road was for sale, he decided the time was ripe to enter the food business.

Patel had saved nearly every penny he earned from his gas station job after coming to the United States in 2005, and with a little help from his cousin, he had enough cash to buy the franchise.

(Read More)

Lenny's featured in Chattanooga Times Free Press

The Chattanooga Times Free Press published a story about Lenny’s Sub Shop owner Kevin Patel and his American dream story. Kevin immigrated from India 6 years ago and saved up enough money to buy his own Lenny’s Sub Shop with his cousin. Now, after a couple years in business, Kevin is raving about his success and seeking opportunities for expansion as well. Lenny’s plans on opening seven additional locations in the market over the next several years. Currently, Kevin owns the only Lenny’s in town. Check out the rest of the story here.

Newcomer finds niche in sub shop
By ELLIS SMITH
Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011

When Kuntal “Kevin” Patel, an immigrant from India working at his cousin’s gas station in Chattanooga, heard in 2009 that the Lenny’s Sub Shop on Gunbarrel Road was for sale, he decided the time was ripe to enter the food business.

Patel had saved nearly every penny he earned from his gas station job after coming to the United States in 2005, and with a little help from his cousin, he had enough cash to buy the franchise.

(Read More)