Subway, the popular sandwich chain, is facing backlash from customers after a recent revelation about an unexpected fee.
A since-deleted post on Reddit’s /mildlyinfuriating subreddit sparked outrage among patrons. The post, titled “Went to Subway for the last time,” included a photo of a sign displayed at a Subway location that announced a 10% service fee being added to customer checks—and customers don’t seem too pleased. Find all of the details below.
Subway customers complain about 10% service fee
The sign in the since-deleted post reads, "A 10% service fee has been added to your check which is used to help pay for our team members’ hourly wages, insurance, and benefits. This will help us keep up with the rising cost of business while keeping the cost of products affordable to all our guests."
In the comments, many Reddit users expressed their frustration and disbelief over what they viewed as a sneaky price hike. One user commented, "I’m not sure how often the unannounced store inspections happen in the US but this store must have already had theirs for this period, cos this would get them penalized." This sentiment was echoed by another user who suggested, "It’s likely being done in this manner specifically to cheat corporate out of franchise fees." The anger was palpable, with one user bluntly stating, "That’s absolutely disgusting."
The outcry didn't stop there. Several commenters criticized the way Subway framed the service fee as a way to keep prices low. "'This way prices stay low,'" one user quoted the sign sarcastically, before adding, "Except you just raised the price of literally everything by 10%." Another user pointed out the dubious nature of the fee, saying, "Weird way to say we have raised prices 10% if you ask me."
This controversy comes at a time when fast food chains across the board are hiking prices. Inflation has hit the fast food industry hard, leading to increased prices for ingredients, labor, and other operational costs. Many chains have responded by raising menu prices, cutting portion sizes, or implementing additional fees like Subway's controversial service fee.
McDonald's prices have even risen as much as 200%.
Consumers are increasingly frustrated as they see their favorite meals become more expensive, and the backlash against Subway’s service fee highlights the broader dissatisfaction with fast food inflation.
Subway's attempt to offset rising costs by adding a service fee has clearly not gone over well with many customers, who see it as an underhanded way of increasing prices. For now, it seems many Subway customers are checking their receipts and thinking twice about their next visit.
