<P> In 2016, Subway closed hundreds of restaurants in the U.S., experiencing a net loss in locations for the first time . However, with 26,744 locations, it remained the most ubiquitous restaurant chain in the U.S. (with McDonald's in the #2 spot). Also in 2016, Subway announced a new logo for the franchise, to be implemented in 2017 . On July 17, 2017, Subway unveiled redesigned restaurants, dubbed "Fresh Forward ." Features include self - order kiosks; USB charging ports at tables; and new menu items, including additional condiments, and bread made without gluten . The company is piloting the changes at 12 locations across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, with many features expected to be implemented into stores worldwide by the end of 2017 . </P> <P> In 2017, the chain closed more than 800 of its U.S. locations . In April 2018, the chain announced it would close about 500 more that year . According Abha Bhattarai of The Washington Post, this is a result of three consecutive years of falling profits, and foot traffic in Subway stores reduced by 25 percent since 2012 . Franchisees also complained that the company's deep promotions further ate away at profits . Industry analysts like Bob Phibbs, chief executive of the New York - based consulting firm Retail Doctor, say changing tastes on the part of consumers, who more frequently prefer locally sourced produce and hormone - free meat served by regional start - ups like Sweetgreen, especially in Metropolitan areas, are the cause of the drop in Subway's sales, as well as loss of market share to competitors . These include fast - casual eateries and sandwich shops like Panera Bread, Au Bon Pain and Firehouse Subs, as well as food trucks, and grocery stores that offer freshly made meals at competitive prices . In January 2018, Subway invested $25 million in a re-branding campaign targeted at young consumers in order to revitalize its image and boost sales . </P> <P> As of June 2017, Subway has approximately 44,000 stores worldwide, all independently owned . located in 112 countries . These locations are largely concentrated in North America, with about 26,400 in the United States (plus about 3,300 in Canada and 1,000 in Mexico), which is almost as many U.S. locations as McDonald's and Starbucks combined . Outside North America, the countries with the most locations are Australia (approximately 1,400), Brazil (approximately 2,200) and the United Kingdom (approximately 2,300). </P> <P> Subway's core product is the submarine sandwich (or "sub"). In addition to these, the chain also sells wraps, salad, paninis, and baked goods (including cookies, doughnuts, and muffins). </P>

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