Quiznos Is Back And So Are Spongmonkeys

Last year, sandwich chain Quiznos began franchising again for the first time in over a decade. This resulted in new restaurants popping up and with approximately 100 agreements in place for franchises. With the announcement this summer that their weird spongmonkey characters will return, it is safe to say Quiznos is making a comeback.

To better understand where Quiznos is going in 2023, let's look back at where this popular sandwich chain has been the past decade.

In 2018, Restaurant Business reported that Quiznos had reduced from 4,700 stores to less than 400. Around this time, High Bluff Capital Partners acquired Quiznos. They were more interested in the passionate fanbase that was still cheering this toasted sandwich chain on, as opposed to "what happened?"

This is where the team went back to the drawing board to design what we are seeing unfold incrementally now.

“We are honored to lead the brand into this exciting growth phase and are inspired by the loyalty of our fans, some of whom drive miles to reach a restaurant while many others cry out “bring Quiznos back," Quiznos CEO Tim Casey said in a recent press statement.

So, what will be new?

The makeover in this strong attempt at a comeback first includes an entirely new operating model. However, the brand is also committed to the core values that made Quiznos sandwiches unique in the first place. "The chain has a new look, a new model, and plans to open dozens of stores over the next year," Eater reported. These updates include testing a drive-thru model.

QSR recently detailed what the new interior look would entail. This is a black, gray, and neon green color scheme. The kitchen design has also been completely revamped. "Whereas back-of-house was previously focused on the toaster, the new design incorporates a flat top grill and deep fryer, allowing Quiznos to explore a bigger, globally inspired menu," QSR explained.

Lastly, there's one other important element to this new era of Quiznos making a comeback.

The unofficial mascot of Quiznos first appeared in a 2004 commercial. "A new digital ad campaign will feature the two creatures, shaped like small rodents but with human-like buggy eyes and teeth," Business Insider explains.

What's different now about the spongmonkey campaign is there is less "what is that?" curiosity. The angle is to now to lean in more into their uniqueness. In fact, in addition to an official Quiznos "Return of the Spongmonkeys" video, they also have an official theme song on Spotify.

You can preview the new Quiznos menu here. It includes their classic sandwiches, melts, and sammies. There are also specials under the "deal of the day," soups, and kid meals.

If you are interested in checking out Quiznos' comeback, you have a few options. In late 2022, a 30-store development was announced. There are also nine locations in Florida. Also last year, Quiznos also began franchising again for the first time in over a decade. To find a full list of open Quiznos restaurants, visit their find a location page.