Why Do People Dislike Working at Subway?

Subway, a popular fast-food chain, is frequented by millions of consumers worldwide. However, the experience of working at a Subway store can vary greatly, and many employees report dissatisfaction with their jobs. This article explores various reasons why individuals might not enjoy working at Subway, providing insights that could help improve employee satisfaction and retention.

The Low Pay Conundrum

One of the most prevalent complaints among Subway employees is the low pay. Many workers report that their wages are often lower than those in other fast-food or retail jobs. According to recent studies, the median hourly wage for a Subway worker in the United States is around $11.50[1]. This low pay can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and financial insecurity, which in turn, can affect overall job satisfaction.

High Turnover: A Persistent Issue

The fast-food industry, including Subway, is notorious for its high employee turnover. The constant influx of new employees can create a stressful work environment. Frequent hiring and training demands can lead to burnout and affect the overall quality of customer service. As one worker shared, 'There was always a high turnover, and we were frequently new staff members, leading to constant training and a fast-paced work environment'.

The Hectic Work Environment

The nature of the work at Subway, especially during peak hours, can be quite hectic. The fast-paced work environment, with multiple tasks woven together, can be overwhelming. Workers often mention that dealing with customers, managing orders, and maintaining cleanliness can lead to stress and burnout. Customer interactions, particularly dealing with difficult customers, can be a significant challenge and can make the job less enjoyable.

Limited Career Advancement

Another reason why employees might dislike working at Subway is the lack of career advancement opportunities. 'There are few opportunities for advancement or professional development within the company' says a former employee[2]. This can lead to a perception that the company is uninterested in investing in employees' long-term development, which can discourage staff from staying with the company long-term.

Repetitive Tasks: A Mundane Reality

The repetitive nature of the tasks, such as sandwich assembly and cleaning, can become monotonous over time. Performing the same tasks day in and day out can lead to boredom and a general sense of dissatisfaction with the job.

Management Challenges

Furthermore, the management practices at some Subway franchises can be suboptimal. Poor management can include lack of support, inconsistent scheduling, and inadequate training. One manager shared, 'The owner was typically absent and cheap; they had little interest in retaining experienced staff or providing fair pay or benefits.' Workers often report feeling undervalued and unsupported in their roles.

Customer Perspectives and Employer Practices

A unique aspect of working at Subway is the visibility of the work. Many employees mention that making sandwiches is performed in plain sight, with customers often peering over the counter. This can be uncomfortable for some workers, particularly given the nature of food preparation. Another issue is the ownership structure of many Subway stores, which are usually privately owned franchises. These franchises can have owners who are known to be cheap and unwilling to invest in their workers or the business. One former manager noted, 'I was a store manager handling the hiring, firing, banking, and inventory, but I was paid only $11.50 an hour despite the responsibilities, and no benefits were provided.'

Conclusion

Subway, while a beloved fast-food chain, is not without its challenges. Low pay, high employee turnover, a hectic work environment, limited career advancement, and repetitive tasks can all contribute to dissatisfaction among employees. Management practices, including poor support, inconsistent scheduling, and inadequate training, can also exacerbate these issues. Improving these aspects could help boost employee satisfaction and retention, ultimately leading to a better customer experience.