SANDWICH chain Subway is looking to open a further 50 stores in the North-East and North Yorkshire over the next two years.

The company, a franchised business, has more than 80 stores in the region employing more than 800 people.

It plans to open another 50 stores by the end of 2011, with a goal to reach 200 stores by 2015. If all goes to plan, a further 500 jobs could be created in the region by the end of next year.

The chain is looking for franchisees.

Additionally, Subway North East is looking to re-open a store in Barnard Castle high street, which closed last year.

Josh Thompson, North- East development agent for Subway, said: “Franchising is one bright spot in a lagging economy. Franchises are better able to weather economic downturns because of their collective strength afforded by their brand identity.

“We are delighted with the success we’ve achieved and that we are going to be able to provide a further 500 jobs in the region by the end of next year.”

The chain was founded in Connecticut, in the US, in 1965 and has grown into a multibillion- pound business with 32,083 outlets in 90 countries.