New era for Subway Narrabri after 23 years of family ownership

Subway Narrabri enters a new era this week with the business changing hands after 23 years of family ownership.

The Subway restaurant opened on December 9, 2002, after proprietor Michael Faber secured an opportunity to bring the franchise to town.

Since then, the business has also included Robyn Faber as a director of the business – all under Faber family ownership for 23 years.

On Wednesday, the restaurant changed hands to new owners, the Shamim Group, a multi-Subway store owner across Australia. Representatives of the new business visited Narrabri this week as part of the handover preparations.

Michael and Robyn have congratulated the new owners while also thanking the many staff and broader community for their support over the years.

“It will be the same good, fresh food and the same good service,” Robyn said.

“Michael and I would like to thank the many hundreds of staff we have employed and the customers who have supported us.”

Michael and Robyn have encouraged the community to continue supporting the new operation.

During its 23 years of business, Subway Narrabri has become an integral part of the community. The business has been a sponsor of junior sports, participated in community fundraising initiatives and was recognised through the Narrabri Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

It has become known for its friendly service, with Liz Woodin being appointed as the first manager. She stayed in this role until her retirement in 2023.

Sally Hetherington, a long-term employee, was then appointed to the manager role and will continue to lead the restaurant after changing hands to new ownership.

The new restaurant operator, the Shamim Group, has exciting plans for the restaurant, including a remodel of the Maitland Street premises to increase seating and adopt Subway’s vibrant new design.

The group’s representative, Mat Swain, said the changes would increase the restaurant’s visibility. “We will continue to support the local community, including community groups,” he said.