Peter Cancro, the visionary founder of Jersey Mike’s, has redefined the sandwich shop experience through his commitment to quality and community.
Starting his journey at the age of 14, Peter worked at Mike’s Subs in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, where he developed a passion for crafting delicious subs.
In 1975, he took a bold step by purchasing the shop, laying the foundation for what would become a beloved national brand.
This article delves into Peter’s inspiring journey and the principles that have guided him in building one of America’s favorite sandwich chains.
Early life of Peter Cancro
Peter was born in 1962 in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, where his entrepreneurial journey would begin at a young age.
Growing up in a working-class family, Peter was no stranger to hard work.
His father, who worked as a firefighter, instilled in him a strong work ethic, while his mother encouraged him to be resourceful and to always think ahead.
As a teenager, Peter worked a variety of jobs, but it was his experience at a local sandwich shop that would shape his future.
Mike’s Subs, a small family-owned sub shop in Barnegat, New Jersey, became a significant part of Peter’s life.
The shop was run by Mike and his wife, and it was there that Peter learned the ins and outs of the sandwich business.
He worked part-time as a teenager, helping with everything from preparing sandwiches to cleaning and stocking shelves.
Peter’s work ethic and commitment to excellence quickly caught the attention of Mike, the owner of Mike’s Subs.
By the time he was 17, Peter was already playing a major role in the operation of the shop, helping Mike run day-to-day operations.
Little did he know that this early experience would set the stage for a dramatic change in his life.
The birth of Jersey Mike’s
In 1975, at the age of just 17, Peter found himself at a crossroads. Mike, the owner of Mike’s Subs, was preparing to sell the business.
At a time when most teenagers were focused on finishing school, Peter saw an opportunity that many would consider too risky.
Peter didn’t have the financial resources to buy the shop outright, but he was passionate about the business and determined to make it work.
Peter’s vision for the future of the shop was clear.
He wanted to expand the business, grow the brand, and maintain the core principles of quality, freshness, and community that Mike’s Subs had been built upon.
So, he took the bold step of approaching a local bank for a loan.
While many financial institutions were hesitant to lend money to a 17-year-old with no business experience, Peter’s passion and work ethic shone through.
The bank was convinced that he was the right person for the job, and they agreed to back him.
With the loan secured, Peter became the proud owner of Mike’s Subs in 1975, at the young age of 17.
However, he knew that if he was going to grow the business and ensure its long-term success, he would need to rebrand it and expand its reach.
This is when the name Jersey Mike’s was born, reflecting both the original shop’s roots in New Jersey and Peter’s vision for a larger, more national presence.
The vision behind Jersey Mike’s
From the very beginning, Peter was committed to providing customers with an exceptional experience.
He understood that success in the sandwich industry wasn’t just about making great subs – it was about creating a strong, loyal customer base that would keep coming back for more.
To achieve this, he focused on three key principles:
1. Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Peter knew that the foundation of any great sandwich is the quality of the ingredients.
From day one, Jersey Mike’s emphasized fresh produce, high-quality meats, and freshly baked bread.
The company’s dedication to sourcing the best ingredients set it apart from many of its competitors and became a defining feature of the brand.
2. Incredible customer service
Peter believed that great food alone wasn’t enough to build a successful business.
He wanted every customer who walked through the door to feel welcomed and valued.
Jersey Mike’s staff is known for going the extra mile, whether it’s offering personalized recommendations or making sure each sandwich is prepared to perfection.
Peter’s commitment to customer service has been a cornerstone of the company’s growth.
3. Commitment to community
Jersey Mike’s has always been about more than just serving sandwiches; it’s about serving the community.
Cancro made sure that every Jersey Mike’s location was actively involved in its local community, whether through charity events, sponsorships, or other philanthropic efforts.
This focus on community has not only helped the brand build customer loyalty but has also fostered a positive public image.
Expanding the brand
In the years following Peter’s acquisition of Mike’s Subs, Jersey Mike’s began to grow rapidly.
The company introduced new sandwiches, expanded its menu, and began offering catering services. But it wasn’t until the 1990s that the real expansion began.
In 1992, Peter decided to franchise Jersey Mike’s, a decision that would prove to be the turning point in the company’s growth.
By offering franchise opportunities, Peter was able to replicate the success of his original store across the country.
As of 2023, Jersey Mike’s has over 2,000 locations nationwide, making it one of the largest sub chains in the United States.
Peter’s approach to franchising was different from many other fast-casual brands.
He chose to focus on a select group of franchisees who shared his commitment to quality and customer service.
This selective approach ensured that each new location would maintain the high standards that had made Jersey Mike’s successful in the first place.
Jersey Mike’s today
Today, Jersey Mike’s is one of the most popular and fastest-growing sandwich chains in the United States.
The company’s revenue continues to rise, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
But despite its massive success, Peter remains focused on the same principles that have guided him from the beginning: quality, customer service, and community.
Peter’s leadership and vision have earned him numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the top entrepreneurs in the country.
Under his guidance, Jersey Mike’s has built a loyal following of customers who trust the brand for its fresh, high-quality sandwiches and commitment to service.
Community involvement and charitable efforts
One of the hallmarks of Jersey Mike’s success is its dedication to giving back.
The company regularly participates in charitable events, and its “Day of Giving” is an annual event where a portion of the day’s proceeds go to local charities.
This focus on community involvement has helped solidify Jersey Mike’s as not just a sandwich chain, but as a brand that cares about making a positive impact.
Conclusion
Peter’s journey from a part-time worker at a small sandwich shop to the founder of one of the nation’s most beloved brands is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and vision.
By staying true to his roots and focusing on quality, customer service, and community, Peter has built a legacy that will continue for years to come.
Jersey Mike’s success is not just a result of great sandwiches – it’s a result of Peter Cancro’s passion for making a difference and his commitment to doing business the right way.
As the company continues to expand and serve millions of customers every year, Peter’s story remains an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere.
