Unexpected demand for Subway’s new
footlong cookies has created a big cookie shortage, driving the new snack off the menu less than two weeks after its debut,
reported CNN.
The sandwich chain announced Thursday that its new Sidekick lineup, which includes a footlong Cinnabon churro and a footlong soft pretzel from Auntie Anne’s, is already exceeding sales expectations. Subway said it has sold more than 3.5 million Sidekick snacks since they were added to menus on January 22, and it was scrambling to get additional supply to meet demand.
Because of the cookie’s surprising popularity, Subway has temporarily removed them from its app and third-party channels, like DoorDash, to manage demand. Customers can still digitally order the soft pretzel and churro, said CNN.
“Sidekicks are a big hit with guests and the latest proof that Subway is a remarkably different brand than it was when we began our transformation journey three years ago—and we’re not slowing down,” said Subway CEO John Chidsey.
Subway Sidekicks are the latest in a series of initiatives developed in collaboration with Subway's franchisees to enhance the overall guest experience, drive more traffic to restaurants and increase profitability for franchisees, the company said in a statement.
Subway also revealed a 5.9% increase in same-store sales in North America year over year and double-digit growth in digital sales around the world, with a 21.8% increase in North America. Additionally, the company added more restaurants than it lost for the first time since 2016.
In 2024, Subway said it is leaning into the momentum it saw last year. Customers can expect new menu items, as well as enhancements to their in-restaurant, online and in-app experience, with even more for the on-the-go consumer.
Last July, Subway announced major changes to its in-store offerings with an investment of $80 million in deli meat slicers for 20,000 stores. However, some operators said the machines have not driven profit and have increased waste.