Restaurant chain Subway is eyeing opening 500 stores across Peninsular Malaysia during the next 10 years under a multi-year franchise agreement with Pegacorn Sdn Bhd.

The West Malaysia expansion, which will see the number of Subway restaurants triple by 2032, is part of the chain’s effort to increase its presence in Apac, following recent master franchise agreements in Indonesia and Thailand. Subway aims to double its current store number in the region from 3300 to more than 6000 in the next five years.

“The Asia Pacific and the Southeast Asia markets continue to be a huge growth opportunity for Subway and an essential part of our international growth strategy,” said John Chidsey, CEO of Subway.

“Pegacorn has proven to be a well-resourced, strategic, and successful local operator that has the local insight and experience needed to expand Subway’s presence in Malaysia.”

As part of the expansion plan, non-traditional Subway stores will be introduced across the country, such as in airports, hospitals, petrol stations, and convenience stores. Meanwhile, the new stores will feature a new design and new drive-throughs and ‘Grab & Go’ options.