PrimoHoagies

After starting as a sandwich maker 25 years ago, Papanier rose up the ranks to take over the family business from his father in 2019. As president, owner and CEO, Papanier has transformed Westville-based PrimoHoagies into a nationally recognized franchise.

Popular for its specialty sandwiches made with high-quality meats, cheeses and fresh-baked rolls, the 33-year-old company plans to surpass 300 restaurants by 2027. The chain currently has more than 120 locations across the U.S. – including 30-plus stores in New Jersey.

Under Papanier’s leadership, PrimoHoagies has grown while maintaining a reputation for premium ingredients and exceptional service. He also developed and executed a plan to streamline the app and online ordering system, which has helped enhance customer accessibility and drive franchisee success.

Those efforts appear to be working. PrimoHoagies ranked for the past two years as America’s No. 1 sandwich shop in USA Today’s readers’ choice awards, beating out Jersey Shore-born sandwich giant Jersey Mike’s Subs.

As part of its nationwide expansion push, PrimoHoagies recently teamed up with NFL players from some key markets targeted for growth. Partnerships unveiled for the 2024-25 football season include Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen and New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers.