Subway threw down the gauntlet at Taco Bell with this new menu drop

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Competition in fast food has never been so fierce.

Inflation has forced consumers to cut back on fast food spending. 

And Subway threw down the gauntlet at Taco Bell with this new menu drop. 

Subway new menu item

Subway has grown into the world’s largest chain restaurant, with more locations than McDonald’s.

However, Subway has struggled in recent years with the rise of competitors like Jersey Mike’s, Firehouse Subs, and others.

Subway was forced to jazz up its menu, beginning in 2021, to be more competitive.

The menu is expanding beyond sandwiches and chips to bring in customers who are seeking a quick snack or a lunch that won’t have them needing a midday nap.

Subway released its new Footlong Dippers that feature meat and cheese rolled up into the lavash-style flatbread the chain uses for its popular wraps.

Lavash is a Middle Eastern bread that is comparable to a tortilla with a soft, bubbly texture.

The Footlong Dippers come in three different flavors: Pepperoni & Cheese, Chicken & Cheese, and Double Cheese.

Each Dipper comes with one of Subway’s 11 signature sauces such as peppercorn ranch, sweet onion teriyaki, or roasted garlic aioli. 

Some have pointed out that Subway’s new Dippers look quite similar to a current value-priced menu item at Taco Bell, the Cheesy Roll Up.

The Cheesy Roll Up is a three-cheese blend that’s toasted in a soft taco tortilla.

At $1 at most Taco Bell locations, it’s one of the last items in fast food that still goes for a buck despite constant inflation.

The Footlong Dippers are joining the Subway Sidekicks menu, which represent more options for customers looking to switch things up.

The Sidekicks menu includes a footlong chocolate chip cookie, a Cinnabon Footlong Churro, and an Auntie Anne’s Footlong Pretzel.

Subway boss on value in fast food

 The Footlong Dippers are priced at $3 apiece, making them one of the best values on Subway’s menu.

Subway North America President Doug Fry told Good Morning America that customers are searching for value more than ever.

Fry explained, “We are starting to see restaurants come up with menu items that are focused on adding greater value. . .The challenge that comes with greater value is there’s a sacrifice for consumers – quality.”

Fry noted that with 11 dipping sauces, customers could come up with 33 different combinations with the Footlong Dipper.

“We don’t think our guests need to sacrifice quality for price,” Fry added. “So we’re bringing in $3 Footlong Dippers.”

The Subway President explained how the chain was trying to provide value to its customers at a time when people are very concerned about inflation.

Fry said, “What we try to do is offer something for everyone’s appetite and everyone’s budget. We work closely with our franchisees who set their prices. We work with data analytics to make sure we are meeting the needs of our guests, offering value on every part of our menu, without sacrificing quality.”

Fast food customers have another value option with Subway’s Footlong Dippers.

Informed American will keep you up-to-date on any developments to this ongoing story.

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