Sandwich bars have followed their transformation with continued expansion over recent years, with chains such as Subway offering a broad range of sandwiches, made fresh to order and served in a slick city centre environment. Sandwich bars have become a staple feature in airports and train stations, where the service is marketed as fast and efficient to capitalise on the notion of 'eating on the go'.

At the same time, the market for lunchtime sandwiches and takeaways has attracted considerable attention from the supermarkets, which now offer classic sandwiches, wraps, sushi and fruit in direct competition with neighbouring cafes.

Opportunities to take up a franchise for one of these large firms are booming in the US, both for new start up businesses and existing enterprises.