Champion’s Strategic Vision for the Sub Franchise Includes Doubling its Footprint
Penn Station East Coast Subs, an Ohio-based fast-casual sandwich franchise, has named Don Champion senior vice president of sales and development. Champion’s strategic vision for the sub franchise includes doubling its footprint as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. The franchise veteran has more than 25 years of experience as a multi-unit franchisee and franchisor.
Champion said Penn Station’s growth potential and strong culture make it a standout franchise opportunity. “With a solid foundation and a forward-thinking leadership team, Penn Station continues to evolve while staying true to its core values, making it an exciting brand to be a part of,” he said. “I’m most excited about the opportunity to help grow a brand with such a strong history and commitment to quality.”
Supporting entrepreneurs in achieving their business goals is also rewarding, he said. “I appreciate the sense of community within franchising – it’s not just about running a business, but about empowering people, fostering innovation and driving economic growth. Seeing franchisees succeed and build something meaningful for themselves and their families is what makes this industry so fulfilling for me.”
COO Craig Dunaway said he’s thrilled to have Champion on the team. “Don’s extensive experience in franchising, combined with his passion for building relationships and helping franchisees succeed, makes him an invaluable asset to Penn Station,” Dunaway said. “We’re confident that his leadership and innovative approach will play a significant role in shaping the future of our brand.”
Career Highlights
Champion has served in key leadership roles with brands including Domino’s, Lennys Grill & Subs, GarageExperts, HorsePower Brands and Threshold Brands. He said having experience as both a franchisee and a franchisor allows him to better support entrepreneurs. “Being a franchisee helped me understand the real challenges business owners face – things I may not have fully grasped if I had only been on the franchisor side,” Champion said. “That firsthand experience, combined with my time as a franchisor, enables me to provide well-rounded guidance and practical solutions to help franchisees anticipate obstacles and navigate their journeys.”
As a franchisor, Champion said building strong unit-level economics, fostering a supportive franchisee culture, and maintaining a clear, strategic growth plan are the keys for success. “Transparency and communication are key because prospective franchisees need to see a proven model with strong financial performance and a leadership team that is committed to their success. Investing in technology, marketing and operational support is also crucial in attracting the right candidates and ensuring sustainable growth.”
When he’s not working, Champion enjoys spending time with his family, friends and two Italian mastiffs, Kona and Orso. Champion also likes tinkering with his motorcycles and cars.
About Penn Station East Coast Subs
Founded in 1985 by Jeff Osterfeld, Penn Station East Coast Subs is known for grilled hot and classic cold subs, fresh-cut fries and freshly squeezed lemonade. The brand has expanded to 320-plus locations across the country.
