Sandwich franchise Port of Subs is accelerating its growth in Washington State. Building on the brand’s existing footprint in Bellingham, Mill Creek, Mountlake Terrace and Tulalip, Regional Developer Ben Pearson has opened his first store in Spokane as part of a 10‑unit development deal across Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.
Port of Subs is also expanding its presence in Seattle with its first location coming to Seattle Tacoma International Airport in Spring 2026, and goals to open additional locations throughout the city.
A longtime Kennewick resident and Eastern Washington native, Pearson brings a proven leadership background shaped by eight years in the U.S. Navy aboard nuclear submarines and 15 years at Grant PUD. His continued growth plan includes priority markets such as Spokane, the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco and Richland) Coeur d’Alene, Walla Walla and Ritzville.
“Port of Subs and its focus on quality and consistency strongly align with my values as a business leader,” said Pearson. “I look forward to bringing the neighborhood sandwich shop experience to the Inland Northwest by building strong community connections and providing excellent customer service to communities across Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.”
Further expanding their footprint in the state, the first Sea-Tac airport location will be led by U.S. military veteran and experienced restaurant operator Rod O’Neil, reflecting the brand’s commitment to growing into non-traditional locations. O’Neil is partnering with longtime partner Jerry Whitsett, operator of Port of Subs’ high-volume airport locations at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS).
Beyond the initial airport location, Port of Subs is seeking prospective regional developers to bring new restaurants to the Greater Seattle area.
“With a new 10-unit development deal in Washington, a record-breaking start in Spokane, and our first SeaTac Airport location on the way, this is a pivotal moment for our growth in the Pacific Northwest,” said Healey Mendicino, President and CEO of Port of Subs. “After more than 20 years in the region, expanding more deeply into Seattle and across Washington is a natural next step, and an opportunity to bring even more neighborhood locations to the guests who’ve supported us for decades. Like Port of Subs, Seattle’s food culture has always embraced freshness and craftsmanship, so we are eager to find likeminded partners to help bring this experience to more communities throughout the city.”
