Last week, HamletHub had the opportunity to speak with Brian Egan, a native of Waterbury and the new owner of the Jersey Mike's Sub in Ridgefield. Egan has been in the food service industry for many years and in various positions ~ starting as a dishwasher and most recently, as the VP Operations/Development with Au Bon Pain Bakery Cafes. His enthusiasm for opening a Jersey Mike's Subs in Ridgefield is contagious. He loves the brand, believes in its commitment to community, and cannot wait to open and meet more in the community.
Why open a Jersey Mike's Subs in Ridgefield?
After opening over 100 restaurants for three different companies, Egan knew he eventually wanted to own his own business. When he began researching franchises to purchase, Egan's main goal was "to feel good about what I serve and Jersey's Mike's was the perfect fit."
Egan is proud that Jersey Mike's only serves the highest quality meats and cheeses, and the bread and roast beef are all prepared in the individual shops. Sandwiches are all prepared fresh ~ fresh sliced and fresh grilled and usually with the Juice, a mixture of red wine vinegar, olive oil and spices. He hopes to turn all of Ridgefield into "Juice-eaters."
Besides Ridgefield, Egan will soon be opening a Jersey Mike's in Brookfield, and another franchisee will be opening shops in Wilton and Fairfield.
Jersey Mike's Subs are known for giving locally. How will you integrate this into your shop?
Besides hiring local, Egan wants to work with local sports teams, non-profits, schools, the Ridgefield Boys & Girls Club and more, to provide food for events and help raise funds. When they open, Egan and employees will hand-out thousands of coupons for FREE subs, with one caveat, in exchange for the free sandwich, please consider giving something to a local non-profit!
Additionally, every year, Jersey Mike's will partner with a local charity and all the profits from one day will be donated directly to that charity.
Tell us your timeline for opening Ridgefield's Jersey Mike's Subs?
If all goes according to the construction plan, Jersey Mike's will open in June. "We are busy now renovating the current space near the Super Stop & Shop, and are hoping for an early June opening. Our focus now is on construction, but soon, we will need to focus on staffing and we plan to hire locally," says Egan.
Editor's Note: As we learn about opening dates and events and employment opportunities, we will share them with you.