PrimoHoagies is celebrating the grand opening of its first Sussex County location with free sandwiches for the first 100 customers.

Located at 90 Route 206 in Byram, the fast casual sandwich chain is scheduled to open at 10 a.m. on April 18 following a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

As part of the festivities, customers enrolled in the chain’s complimentary rewards program will enjoy Primo Size Hoagies for just $6.99, according to PrimoHoagies.

The newest location is franchised by Patty and Russ Babb, a local husband-wife team who owns six Dunkin’ stores in the area, and Drew Busa, who has worked for them since he was a student at Roxbury High School.

After discovering the PrimoHoagies brand, the Babbs decided to help the franchise expand its footprint in Sussex and Morris counties and partner with Busa, who has advanced over the years from his role as a team member to interim general manager at the couple’s Dunkin’ locations.

“When Russ and I try out a new restaurant, we judge it by its bread. And anyone who has had a PrimoHoagie knows theirs is simply the best. We know the Byram community well and we can’t wait to introduce them to the Primo Difference,” said Patty Babb, who went on to say they are also thrilled to bring on Busa as a partner, allowing him to share his experience and continue to grow as part of their management team.

According to PrimoHoagies, the 2,000-square-foot shop is expected to employ about 15 people and will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Along with options to dine in, the restaurant will offer takeout, delivery and catering services.

Founded 30 years ago in Philadelphia, the chain is popular for its diverse menu featuring specialty sandwiches made with high-quality meats and cheeses piled high on fresh-baked rolls. Now headquartered in Westville, the company now has more than 100 locations across the country, including over 30 restaurants in New Jersey.

The chain is continuing its efforts to expand nationally, with plans to enter five new markets in 2023. In January, the fast-growing franchise announced stores in Colorado, Louisiana, Michigan, New York and Texas, bringing its footprint to a total of 12 states.

As part of a goal to launch 300 to 350 new spots in the next five years, PrimoHoagies has 85 locations under development and 125 total scheduled to open by the end of 2023.

Within New Jersey, PrimoHoagies restaurants in Wayne, Glassboro and Clarksboro are coming soon, according to its website.

Did you know?

PrimoHoagies CEO Nicholas Papanier Jr. was named to the NJBIZ Power 100 list? Check out all the honorees by clicking here.