After 40 years as owner/operator of the MR. SUB franchise in Thunder Bay, John Sgromo still has a hand in every facet of the business.

“I was brought up in a European family so I was taught that nothing beats honesty, respect and hard work,” Sgromo says. “The values I learned from my parents are priceless.”

His beginnings are humble. Working part-time at one of the restaurants while still in school, John observed that the owner was not particularly hands-on, so he took over the role of scheduling staff and taking care of banking and other aspects of the operation.

In 1979, he purchased the business while still attending night classes at Confederation College. Today his three stores in Thunder Bay employ 35 people. John and his son, John Jr., with long-time manager Anita Ostenrud, oversee the day-to-day operations.

John attributes much of his success to his dedicated management team and staff, who go “above and beyond” to ensure every guest that enters the restaurant is treated like family.

He’s also not above getting behind the counter to serve the rush hour crowd, building a sandwich to a customer’s satisfaction.

“Being your own boss is the best!” John says with a laugh. “I am hands-on so I see my customers daily.”

That dedication to customer service and high standards earned him and his team the MR. SUB Franchisee of the Year Award.

Every guest is welcomed immediately with a warm and friendly greeting and is always thanked and appreciated, John says.

“There is no short cut to success, just hard work,” says John, who is looking forward to passing the business on to his son.

John is very excited as his locations will be undergoing renovations and upgrades over the next year. He looks forward to showing off the new look and to serving the community for many years to come.