The Kaiapoi community came together on Saturday, the 18th of July, to celebrate the opening of the town’s new purpose-built Subway restaurant.
Located just a few blocks north of the site where Subway Kaiapoi has called home for the past 20 years, the larger 140-square-metre restaurant was officially opened by Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon, alongside owners Emma and Brendan Lucas and restaurant manager Nancy Catolico.
The Lucas’ became the owners of Subway Kaiapoi almost a year ago, although their connection to the Subway brand stretches back more than two decades.
Emma Lucas began working at a Subway restaurant during a student holiday job in Ōtorohanga. She later moved to Melbourne with Brendan Lucas, who grew up in North Canterbury, and went on to oversee 24 Subway restaurants in Australia.
She has continued to operate three restaurants in Tasmania, alongside Subway restaurants in New Brighton and Kaiapoi.
Many locals attended the opening celebration, which included special offers, spot prizes, free face painting and an appearance by Subway mascot, Subman.
Brendan Lucas said the support from the Kaiapoi community made the opening particularly special.
“After months of planning, it was great to finally open the doors and welcome everyone into the new restaurant,” said Lucas.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support we received on opening day. It was great to see so many familiar faces, local families and members of the wider community enjoying the new space.”
The new restaurant includes increased dining capacity, updated Subway décor and equipment, and ample off-street parking for guests.
Emma Lucas added that the new premises have created a more welcoming environment for both guests and the restaurant’s team of 12 Sandwich Artists.
“We wanted to create a restaurant that our guests, our team and the wider Kaiapoi community could feel proud of,” she said.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a talented and hardworking team, led by our wonderful manager, Nancy. They worked incredibly hard in the lead-up to the opening and played an important role in making the day such a success.”
Supporting local organisations will remain an important part of the restaurant’s future.
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