In 2004, Sir John joined forces with Planet Hollywood entrepreneur Robert Earl (two Earls are better than one) to create a new sandwich franchise in the States. The Earl of Sandwich chain has grown steadily over the past seven years, gaining a loyal following - Earl of Sandwich even has an outlet in Disneyland.
Yesterday, the Earl of Sandwich set up his first shop on home turf. The store, situated on Ludgate Hill, near St Paul's, hopes to cash in on the lively local lunch-time trade.
But can the Earl of Sandwich stand up to the mighty Subway? The US chain currently boasts more stores than McDonalds in London, retaining a whopping 60% market share of the sandwich industry in the UK.
Alex Garland, CEO for Earl of Sandwich Europe, is unfazed by the competition: ""We have big plans to roll out. We'd like to establish a solid base in London fairly quickly, and if it's successful, we'll take it nationwide."
The positioning of the Earl of Sandwich brand is more high end than Subway - a sort of Subway-meets-Pret concept. "Hopefully we'll be original," says Garland. "The main concept is hot, fresh sandwiches made to order, which are prepared fast."
There are currently 13 varieties of hot sandwich available, all priced at £3.95.
Some interesting sandwich facts
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Have you had an Earl of Sandwich sandwich? Think the chain will be the next big thing? Leave your review in the comments section below.