Staff writer
There is a lot of work left to be done, but a Subway restaurant will open in Marion this spring.
The fast food chain would occupy the former Marion Auto Mart building next to Carlsons’ Grocery. Carlsons’ co-owner Greg Carlson said his family has owned the building for about seven years.
“We’ve been trying to figure out something,” co-owner Linda Carlson said. “It needed to be used, not just sitting there empty.”
Greg Carlson said the investment involves three parties, including local veterinarian Jessica Laurin of Animal Health Center of Marion County.
“There’s a lot of people who come to town for ball games and music festivals, things in the community, and things at the school,” Linda Carlson said. “There aren’t a lot of options late at night.”
Carlsons’ co-owner Mitch Carlson said they will have a better idea of an opening date in the coming weeks, but did not want to announce an opening date until five weeks prior.
“There’s a lot of work to be done, and training to be done,” Linda Carlson said.
In order to receive a Subway franchise, she and Greg will have to attend a two-week training session at the end of February in Connecticut. There, they will learn how to operate the restaurant.
Mitch’s son, Chase Carlson, will be the manager of the future restaurant, and he will take online classes and attend a training session as well.
“It’s just a big learning process for everyone in the beginning,” Chase Carlson said.
He said he has not yet gained much managerial experience outside of managing the grocery store on weekends.
Linda Carlson said all of Carlsons’ ownership would be involved with helping him along when the restaurant opens.
“A lot of people seem excited about it,” Chase Carlson said. “We need something in this town, I think.”