Jimmy John's gives it the old college try... again
Robert Amaefule
Issue date: 8/25/08 Section: News
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The fast-food chain will be located in its original spot of 821 W. Jackson, replacing a vacant building that was once a Larry A's restaurant. The first Jimmy John's in Macomb was opened in 1985 and closed eight years later due to limited management and staff. That restaurant was only the second store ever opened by Jimmy John, the original creator of the franchise. The franchise made its debut in 1983 in Charleston, home of Eastern Illinois University.
Former WIU student and Quincy native Keith Grant will be the storeowner of the restaurant.
Grant will face stiff competition with the neighboring restaurants surrounding his own on Jackson. For Grant, he's just anxious to accommodate students ready for a quick snack.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity of helping the students in any way possible," said Grant. "I know Subway is not too far away from us, but I feel that it will give us healthy competition, which will only help us in the long run."
Grant said it was not a difficult decision in picking Macomb to house his first fully owned store. With the collective population of town residents and university students, his said that he decision is a safe and lucrative one.
"Macomb has a healthy number of students, which helps the overall population," said Grant. "Students there like to have a good time as well, and like to eat at restaurants that taste good and provide good service. Jimmy John's will bring all that and more to the table."
According to Grant, Jimmy John's will also provide fresh baked bread for his subs that are never more than four hours old.
In addition, Grant said he feels that rapid delivery speed and friendly customer service will prove vital in the success of his restaurant.
"I know that one thing we must do is deliver and deliver in a timely fashion," said Grant.
"Many stores in Macomb add that application to their service and it usually pays dividends.
"We would like to be known for not just our speedy service but also being friendly as well. It will be a great place to work and an even better place to hang out and eat."
Grant said he expects his store to open by early October.
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