Subway Scales Back Revived Sub Club Amid Customer and Franchisee Pushback
Just two months after reviving its once-popular digital rewards program, Subway is already rolling back some of its most attractive perks. The original Sub Club began as a punch card program before ending in 2005. Its recent digital relaunch included a headline offer: buy three footlongs and get the fourth free. However, members were notified that beginning Feb. 23, only full-priced subs will qualify for rewards stamps. Then, on April 1, the “buy three, get one free” offer will officially end, though customers can still redeem any previously earned free subs.
A Subway spokesperson said, “We’re excited that millions of people have joined Sub Club and that the program’s bold offer reignited conversation around value. On April 1, Sub Club’s reward structure will be updated, continuing to provide guests flexibility in how they earn and redeem rewards. Looking ahead, we’re exploring additional reward opportunities, including potential partnerships and more dynamic ways to recognize and engage members.”
Subway is replacing the stamp-based structure with a more conventional points-to-dollars system. Members now earn 10 points for every dollar spent, and after accumulating $40 in purchases, they receive $2 in Subway cash. Some customers and franchisees have criticized the shift, noting that the value proposition effectively drops from about 25% back under the old system to roughly 5% back under the new model. The loyalty changes add to ongoing tensions surrounding Subway’s pricing promotions and franchise relations. The chain recently reintroduced discounted footlong deals, most recently at $6.99, replacing the long-retired $5 Footlong, drawing complaints from customers over higher prices. Franchisees have previously filed complaints with the Federal Trade Commission, and Subway was cited in a 2024 FTC crackdown on alleged unfair franchising practices.
Follow this page to learn more about changes to Subway’s rewards program.
Jack in the Box Brings Matcha to the Drive-Thru Nationwide
Jack in the Box is adding matcha to its national menu, becoming one of the first major quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains in the U.S. to roll out a dedicated matcha beverage platform. Known for its unconventional menu choices, the brand is leaning into café-inspired flavors with a beverage-forward innovation strategy. By introducing matcha drinks to the drive-thru, the company is transforming what was once considered a specialty café staple into a more accessible, everyday option.
Jack in the Box Executive Chef Ciaran Duffy said, “The Matcha Platform represents a different side of Jack in the Box innovation, it’s about expanding the flavor palate, and not just pushing indulgence for indulgence sake. While we’re known for bold, craveable food, we’re also focused on evolving with consumer tastes and where trends are headed, especially with younger Millennials and Gen Z.”
Rather than coffee or traditional milkshakes, matcha requires careful formulation to ensure balanced flavor, color, and performance. The company selected a matcha designed to integrate seamlessly with its equipment and deliver a reliable taste experience across locations. The new Matcha Platform features two drinks: a Matcha Iced Latte made with matcha tea, sweetened cream, and vanilla served over ice, and an OREO Matcha Shake that blends matcha with vanilla shake and cookie crumbles, topped with whipped cream. Both beverages are available nationwide in restaurants, through the Jack app, and online.
Read all about it here.
Restaurants Tighten Strategy as Diners Pull Back Spending in 2026
Persistent inflation and economic uncertainty are reshaping how Americans dine out in 2026. Nearly 68% of U.S. consumers say they’re reducing restaurant visits, prioritizing value and convenience as household budgets remain under pressure. Average weekly restaurant spending has fallen to about $90 as of February 2026. This is down $25 from June 2025. The findings come from new nationwide research by Popmenu, which surveyed 328 restaurant operators and 1,000 consumers in the United States. Despite softer demand, most operators remain cautiously optimistic: 63% feel positive about business prospects this year, and 25% are very optimistic. Still, expansion plans have cooled slightly, with 28% planning to open or expand locations, compared to 32% last year.
Popmenu CEO and Co-founder, Brendan Sweeney, said, “Economic pressure is not letting up for restaurants who see costs continue to increase and consumer confidence plummet. Operators are actively seeking ways to gain an edge at every step of the guest journey—from when they search for restaurants online to when they place an order and choose whether to return. You’ll see that play out in new menu options and dining experiences, frequent and targeted digital marketing, and more tech-enabled hospitality.”
Rising food and labor costs are forcing difficult pricing decisions. About 71% of food service operators expect to increase menu prices in 2026, a 57% increase from a year ago. To offset sticker shock, 35% plan to introduce more budget-friendly items, while 31% are considering variable pricing based on demand or timing. Menu innovation is also accelerating, with operators leaning into limited-time offerings (41%), healthier dishes (33%), low- or no-alcohol beverages (33%), scratch-made items (32%), and comfort food favorites (30%) to attract cautious diners. Loyalty and personalization are also key battlegrounds. Fifty-three percent of restaurant consumers say they often or always redeem loyalty rewards, and 72% of restaurants are responding to that with plans to increase special offers and rewards. Meanwhile, 87% of restaurateurs are automating tailored communications, and 61% are enhancing in-store experiences with themed events and immersive dining.
Unlock the full Popmenu report here.
Original Article Links:
Subway scraps free footlong perk just two months after Sub Club relaunch
Jack in the Box Launches New Matcha Platform
Popmenu Survey: Nearly 70 Percent of Guests to Reduce Restaurant Dining in 2026