PrimoHoagies Appoints Angela Coppler to Spearhead Growth in National Expansion Strategy

PrimoHoagies Elevates Growth Strategy with New Leadership

PHILADELPHIA, April 15, 2026 — PrimoHoagies, the award-winning Italian specialty sandwich franchise recognized for its authentic hoagies and premium quality ingredients, has recently made headlines with the announcement of Angela Coppler's appointment as Senior Vice President of Development. This strategic hire marks a significant step in the brand's plans for disciplined expansion across the United States, emphasizing unit economics designed to attract intelligent multi-unit operators and savvy investors.

Founded over three decades ago, PrimoHoagies has built a reputation for delivering high-quality Italian sandwiches, significantly setting itself apart in a crowded market. With approximately 125 locations across 11 states, predominantly in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the brand has demonstrated an imperative growth opportunity characterized by strong average unit volumes (AUV).

Angela Coppler joins PrimoHoagies with over 20 years of franchise development and strategic growth experience, having previously held key positions at renowned companies such as The Wendy's Company. There, she was instrumental in domestic and international expansion strategies. In her time at Cousins Maine Lobster, she headed the development efforts that facilitated national expansion, ultimately resulting in rapid unit growth.

In her new role, Coppler is expected to implement a holistic growth strategy that will enhance franchisee performance while focusing on elevating unit-level returns. As they pursue this calculated evolution, PrimoHoagies aims to shift the focus from simply increasing the number of units to fostering a system that reinforces the brand’s authenticity and quality during its growth.

"This isn’t just about adding locations for growth's sake," says Coppler. "We are dedicated to establishing a disciplined growth system that safeguards what makes PrimoHoagies special. With this approach, every new restaurant will reinforce our brand's legacy and create value for our franchise partners and stakeholders."

She also intends to attract proficient operators with capital backing for high-potential markets, ensuring an expansion strategy that effectively maintains the brand's heritage and identity.

Unlike many sandwich chains that offer commoditized options, PrimoHoagies thrives in the niche of authentic Italian deli concepts. Utilizing proprietary seeded bread made fresh daily along with exclusive high-quality meats and cheeses, the chain offers a product experience that national competitors find hard to emulate. This distinctiveness leads to strong customer loyalty and high repeat traffic.

Recent consumer studies in operational areas highlight brand awareness exceeding 95%, with around 80% of those familiar with PrimoHoagies converting into actual customers. This indicates that demand is robust and scalability is achievable.

Apart from their sandwich offerings, PrimoHoagies has successfully established its footing in catering and third-party delivery markets. The brand continues to enhance customer engagement through innovative mobile apps and rewards programs, ensuring it stays competitive in the fast-evolving food service landscape.

For franchise operators, the model presents an efficient and repeatable framework, with restaurant spaces typically averaging 1,000 – 1,200 square feet. The absence of a hood or fryer requirements simplifies the build-out process, ensuring a swift transition into new markets. With initial investments starting around $388,000 and structured multi-unit incentives, this democratic model of operation opens doors for disciplined operators to scale effectively.

Currently, PrimoHoagies has over 40 units under development, suggesting that they are poised to enter a substantial growth phase. As the brand remains early in its expansion journey, it offers an attractive proposition for experienced operators looking to secure development rights in a distinguished, in-demand concept before limited availability transforms into fierce competition.

In conclusion, the appointment of Angela Coppler as Senior VP of Development symbolizes more than just a leadership change; it represents a commitment to strategic growth and long-term sustainability for PrimoHoagies. The brand aims to maintain its core identity while expanding its reach across the nation, supported by a proven system built on strong unit economics and dedicated franchisee success. For additional information, prospective franchise partners can explore more at franchising.primohoagies.com.