Restaurants and retailers long ago realized that loyalty programs are not just a simple bonus offering. They are often a primary factor driving where people choose to spend their money, especially in tough economic times. Research suggests that the first modern loyalty programs date back to the 18th century, according to The New York Times. And while loyalty programs have transformed from “copper tokens” to cards, it's only the technology that has changed, not the underlying idea: When consumers get som ...

Core Insights - Subway has entered the Azerbaijani market through a master franchise agreement with N Sky Build, aiming to strengthen its presence in the EMEA region [1][2] - N Sky Build will have exclusive rights to develop, operate, and manage all Subway outlets in Azerbaijan, leveraging their 20 years of experience in managing international brands [1][2] - The partnership is expected to accelerate Subway's development in Azerbaijan, with a focus on operational efficiency and enhancing guest experience [3][4] Expansion Strategy - The agreement is part of Subway's broader strategy, which includes over ten master franchise agreements in the EMEA region since 2021, representing more than 4,000 planned restaurants [2] - Subway is committed to international expansion by collaborating with established operators to ensure a consistent brand experience across different markets [3] Operational Enhancements - N Sky Build will implement Subway's latest restaurant design and updated digital platforms in Azerbaijan [3] - The partnership aims to improve operational efficiency and enhance the guest experience at new locations [3][4] Market Potential - Subway EMEA president highlighted Azerbaijan as a significant growth opportunity, emphasizing N Sky Build's market knowledge and operational excellence as key factors for successful expansion [4]