Key facts
- Jersey Mike's has signed a five-year sponsorship deal to become the headline sponsor of the EFL Trophy.
- The sponsorship takes effect immediately and will run until the end of the 2030-31 season.
- Jersey Mike's plans to open 400 stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
- The company's founder, Peter Cancro, will lead the expansion into the UK and Ireland.
- Nigel Travis, chairman of Leyton Orient, serves on Jersey Mike's board since January 2025.
- The EFL Trophy is competed for by League One and League Two clubs, along with invited under-21 Premier League sides.
American sub sandwich chain Jersey Mike's has entered the UK market through a five-year sponsorship deal with the EFL Trophy, effective immediately until the end of the 2030-31 season. This move aligns with the company's broader international expansion strategy, which includes a commitment to open 400 stores across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Jersey Mike's founder and Chairman of the Board, Peter Cancro, will lead this first European venture. Cancro, who founded the company over 50 years ago and remains a significant shareholder after its sale to Blackstone last year, expressed excitement about bringing the brand's authentic "A Sub Above" experience to markets that value quality and community.
Charlie Morrison, CEO of Jersey Mike's, highlighted Cancro as an ideal partner for this expansion, noting his integral role in growing the brand from its first location to over 3,000 across North America. Andy Skehan, President of International at Jersey Mike's, also expressed confidence in the brand's global growth potential.
In addition to the sponsorship, Jersey Mike's has a familiar face in the EFL, with Leyton Orient chairman Nigel Travis having served on the company's board since January 2025. EFL chief executive Trevor Birch stated that the "Jersey Mike's Trophy" holds an important place in the football calendar, providing valuable competitive minutes for players, financial support for clubs, and a chance for fans to see their teams compete at Wembley.