Sam Shango took his family on a Florida vacation and came back with more than T-shirts. He came back with a concept for a hot franchise.
The first week of January, Shango opened the doors to
Firehouse Subs at 200 S. Washington Square in downtown Lansing. Founded by firefighters, the "fast casual" Florida chain gained fame and popularity by serving piping hot meats and cheeses on toasted rolls while raising dollars for first responders.
"I've been watching the brand and was taken by their unique business model," says Shango of the eatery that merges food and fundraising. "Not only is the food great, but they have a foundation that benefits local fire stations and the community."
Shango laid the groundwork for the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation while preparing to open his first franchise. Now in full operation, Lansing's Firehouse Subs commits a percentage of sub sales to support local first responders and public safety organizations. Other foundation venues include spare change canisters, rounding up sales, and selling empty five-gallon pickets buckets for $2 each.
"I've never done anything so complete," says Shango of joining a franchise that boasts 700 units across 38 states. "From the quality of the food to giving back to the community – it just makes you feel good to be part of it, and to eat lunch here."
Shango invested about $400,000 to transform the 2,500-square foot state office facility to a sit-down restaurant. Renovations included upgrades to HVAC, water and electrical systems, as well as an extensive corporate makeover to simulate a firehouse interior. Red, white and black dominate the floor plan, while a Lansing-centric mural commands attention.
Shango hired 30 people to staff the first of three Firehouse Subs he plans to co-own and manage with his brother Eddy Shango.
Source: Sam Shango, Co-Owner and Manager, Firehouse Subs
Writer: Ann Kammerer, Development News Editor
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