In 1965, Fred Deluca had just graduated from high school in Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA. Like many young adults his age, he had dreams of attending college. Although he was a hard-working, competent and dependable young man, the $1.25-per-hour he earned working at the local hardware store wouldn’t be enough to finance his education.
Discouraged, Fred decided to ask Dr. Peter Buck, an old family friend, for some advice. The two had known each other for years and Fred half expected Dr. Buck to loan him the money for college after telling him of his plans to study to become a medical doctor. Instead, Dr. Buck gave Fred an idea that would change his life and the lives of people around the world.
“I think you should open a submarine sandwich shop,” said Dr. Buck.
At first Fred was skeptical, but after Dr. Buck explained how the sandwich shop could finance Fred’s future education, he was on board. That night, Fred and Dr. Buck formed a partnership that would lead to the first SUBWAY® restaurant.