In a move that has disappointed many loyal customers, Subway has quietly confirmed it is discontinuing the popular 'fourth footlong free' offer that was the centrepiece of its recently revamped Sub Club loyalty program. The sandwich giant will officially end the promotion on April 1, replacing it with a points-based rewards system more akin to rivals like Dunkin' and Starbucks.
End of an Era for Sub Club
Subway's Sub Club loyalty program underwent its first major refresh in two decades back in December 2025. The headline-grabbing feature was a straightforward and highly popular promise: every fourth footlong sandwich purchased would be completely free. This was widely celebrated by customers as one of the chain's best value propositions in years.
However, this week, Sub Club members began receiving email notifications warning that this flagship perk would soon disappear. The communication confirmed that the 'fourth footlong free' promotion will cease on April 1. In its place, Subway will implement a new points-based structure where customers earn $2 in 'Subway cash' for every $40 spent.
Customer Outcry on Social Media
The announcement has triggered a wave of frustration and disappointment among Subway's customer base. Members have taken to platforms like X and Reddit to voice their displeasure, with many accusing the company of corporate greed and lamenting the loss of a genuinely valuable offer.
'Ok so the Subway fourth footlong free sure didn’t last long! Got to love corporate greed!!! These deals are also getting worse,' one X user wrote, capturing the sentiment of many. Another added, 'Sub Club is getting rid of the fourth footlong free deal starting April. We just can’t have anything nice, can we?'
The frustration extended to the constant changes in loyalty schemes. 'Why do all of these apps constantly change daily!?!!?? Why can’t things just stay as is!' another user questioned. For some, the change is a deal-breaker. 'Pretty much the only reason I went back to Subway was because of the new rewards program. Before April I’ll be using all my rewards/points then deleting my account,' a Reddit user declared.
Subway's Official Statement
Subway first communicated the change directly via email to its loyalty program members. A company spokesperson later provided an official statement, attempting to frame the shift positively.
'We’re excited that millions of people have joined Sub Club and that the program's bold offer reignited conversation around value,' the statement read. 'On April 1, Sub Club’s reward structure will be updated, continuing to provide guests flexibility in how they earn and redeem rewards. Looking ahead, we’re exploring additional reward opportunities, including potential partnerships and more dynamic ways to recognize and engage members.'
Broader Context for the Chain
This loyalty program change occurs against a backdrop of significant challenges for the Subway brand. Earlier this month, news broke that one of its franchise operators had filed for bankruptcy, putting 45 locations at immediate risk. Furthermore, the chain has shuttered over 600 locations across the United States in the past two years, reflecting broader operational and market pressures.
Despite these setbacks, Subway maintains a formidable position in the global fast-food landscape. As of 2025, it remains the world's third-largest restaurant chain by number of locations, trailing only McDonald's and Starbucks. Domestically, it continues to hold the title of the largest sandwich chain in the United States, ahead of competitors Jersey Mike's and Jimmy John's.
Outside of the Sub Club, Subway continues to offer other promotional deals to customers, such as its discounted 'Meal of the Day' and limited-time offerings like the Happy Gilmore 2-inspired meal introduced in 2025. The Daily Mail has reached out to Subway for further comment on the loyalty program changes and the customer reaction.
