How it all Started
The first Sub Station restaurant was opened on Broad Street in Sumter, SC, in May of 1975 by Dominic (Don) Ruffalo and his brothers Charlie & John. They brought with them a wealth of experience and knowledge in the restaurant business. For years their family owned and operated one of the largest, oldest and finest restaurants in New Jersey.
Don & John moved to Sumter and got things started. They chose a
location halfway between town and Shaw Air Force Base, because
it was as close to the base as they could get. Despite their
backgrounds, the Ruffalo brothers were amazed at the success of
this small submarine sandwich shop.
Within several months, Don was approached by persons interested
in following his example. In January of 1976, the first Sub Station II
Franchise Facility was launched in Charleston, SC, and in May and
June of that year, two other franchises were chartered: one in
downtown Sumter and the other in Columbia, SC. All 3 units are still
in operation.
The original plan was to open near military bases, as they knew
that's where the biggest demand was. It was soon apparent that the
entire Southeast loved Sub Sandwiches!
Sub Station II's reputation for good subs quickly spread. From big
towns to small, everyone wanted to "Dive into the taste of Sub
Station II". But, rather than roll out new franchises as fast as
possible, Don chose to service his existing franchises, ensuring
quality and strengthening Sub Station II operations for the long
haul.
Once Sub Station II was convinced of its future, it moved ahead
cautiously. By the end of 1977, there were thirteen stores in
operation or under construction in strategic locations in South
Carolina and three in Georgia. These locations helped Sub Station
II gain market awareness, build valuable supplier relationships and
establish uniform appearance and operational standards. Sub
Station II was for real. Since then, several franchisees have
purchased additional units, attesting to their confidence in Sub
Station II's future.
Today, Sub Station II has over 80 locations from South Carolina to
California, Kentucky to Georgia, and points in between.
Stonehenge, Inc. is proud to own the seventh store in the chain.
