New Firehouse Subs location opens in Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

Another option is available for sub sandwich lovers in Amherstburg.

Firehouse Subs celebrated its grand opening last Wednesday morning with council members and officials from the Amherstburg Fire Department on hand for the ribbon cutting. It is the fifth location for franchise owner Javed Qadree, who also owns Firehouse Sub locations in Sarnia, Chatham and two Windsor locations.

“Amherstburg is one of the most beautiful towns,” said Qadree. “It’s a very fast growing community.”

Qadree said he lives 20 minutes away in Windsor and said he looked to Amherstburg as the first stop of wanting to expand into Essex County. He has future goals of expanding closer to the Toronto area.

Qadree pointed out the chain was started in Jacksonville, Florida by a pair of firefighters – Chris and Robin Sorensen – in 1992. They have maintained contact with area firefighters and first responders where they operate, noting there is the company’s Public Safety Foundation that can be utilized. The LaSalle Fire Department recently received $32,000 for vehicle extrication equipment, he added.

“It’s not just a theme,” said Qadree.

“We give back to our communities through the Public Safety Foundation.”

Qadree said Firehouse Subs produces a high quality product and they steam their subs, noting the various options are “piping hot and piled high.”

The new Firehouse Subs is at 83 Sandwich St. S., part of the new addition next to Sobeys. Qadree said they like where they are situated, noting they are close to other commercial businesses and residents. He said Sobeys is a busy location and that “it’s great to have them next to us.”

Qadree is no stranger to emergency services himself, pointing out he is a former Peel Regional Police officer. He said he had a dream to be a business owner and the Public Safety Foundation has allowed him to still give back to the public. He recalled starting with little money, as he exhausted bank accounts and lines of credit, and now he has five locations with more planned.

“We enjoy putting smiles on our customers’ faces,” said Qadree.

“I look forward to serving this beautiful town for a long time,” he added.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb presided over the ribbon cutting and offered his congratulations to the franchise owner and staff.

“Welcome to the Amherstburg family,” said Gibb. “Things are happening in Amherstburg. Things are on the move!”

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