Founder Profile
Chris Sorensen
Last reviewed: 2026 · By Swet Parvadiya
Background
Chris Sorensen co-founded Firehouse Subs in 1994, establishing a premium, community-focused fast-casual sandwich brand with a mission to support first responders, creating a highly engaged franchisee base.
Founding Story
Chris Sorensen co-founded Firehouse Subs in 1994 alongside his brother Robin. Drawing on their family's history in public service, they established a premium, community-focused fast-casual sandwich brand with a mission to support first responders. The brand's commitment to quality, freshly sliced meats and its unique community giving model created a fiercely loyal customer base and a highly engaged franchisee network. The brand's success led to its acquisition by Restaurant Brands International in 2023, adding a premium, fast-casual dimension to the corporate portfolio.