Subway is set to expand its footprint in Thailand with more than 700 new stores through a master franchise partnership with its existing local franchisee, About Passion.

Under the agreement, new stores will be rolled out across the country over the next 10 years, increasing Subway’s store count by more than five-fold over the 130 restaurants currently trading.

Subway’s existing restaurants in Thailand will be converted into the brand’s ‘Fresh Forward’ design concept, (pictured above in Hong Kong), with a concession allowing franchisees to add Thai cultural elements to the restaurants. Besides the traditional restaurants, several store models will be implemented, such as drive-throughs, kiosks and Grab & Go, to maximise sales opportunities.

“The announcement is a significant step towards growing our Asia Pacific business,” said John Chidsey, CEO of Subway. “We have seen a strong demand for Subway across Thailand.”

The expansion plan in Thailand follows the brand’s launch in Indonesia last year and is part of its broader plan in Apac where it aims to double its store network to more than 6000 during the next five years.

“We have seen enormous success in our Subway restaurants throughout Bangkok and are committed to continuing to build profitable and sustainable growth and inspiring brand love amongst Thai consumers,” said Thanakorn Thanawarith, founder and director of About Passion.