Subway's declining sales might be partially reversed by tapping into an unconventional asset—the brand's iconic scent. Many customers associate Subway with a distinctive bakery-like aroma, which could be leveraged beyond the restaurant setting. This idea proposes capitalizing on sensory branding by creating personal care or home fragrance products inspired by Subway’s signature smell, turning nostalgia into a new revenue stream.

How It Could Work

The concept involves developing products that replicate Subway’s recognizable scent, starting with non-intimate items like candles or air fresheners before expanding to body sprays if demand is proven. For example, a "Fresh Baked Bread" candle could evoke the restaurant experience at home, while a playful "Italian B.M.T." cologne might appeal to fans as a quirky novelty. Limited-edition collaborations with established fragrance brands could help validate the idea and handle production.

• For Subway: Diversifies income and strengthens emotional ties with customers.
• For consumers: Offers nostalgia or humor, especially for longtime fans.
• For partners: Fragrance brands gain access to Subway’s large customer base.

Testing and Execution

One way to minimize risk would be to start small. A crowdfunded candle or a social media poll could gauge interest before committing to large-scale production. Partnering with a company like Demeter (known for food-inspired scents) might simplify R&D and distribution. Marketing could lean into Subway’s playful side—imagine a campaign like "Bring the Subway Smell Home" with limited releases tied to promotions (e.g., free air freshener with a sandwich combo).

Standing Out From Existing Ideas

While Burger King once released a flame-grilled perfume as a stunt, this idea focuses on sustained monetization. Unlike Demeter’s generic "Pizza" scent, a Subway-branded product would leverage a specific, nostalgic connection. McDonald’s has given away scented candles, but this approach would treat the concept as a revenue driver rather than a one-time gimmick.

By starting cautiously and emphasizing Subway’s unique brand identity, this could evolve from a quirky experiment into a profitable sideline—or even a cult favorite.