Firehouse Subs started in Jacksonville
Firehouse Subs began in Jacksonville in 1994. Brothers Chris and Robin Sorensen, both former firefighters, opened the first shop.
Their old line of work gave the restaurant its name and theme. The public-safety foundation came later. The brothers started it in 2005 after seeing needs that followed Hurricane Katrina.
Those dates tell two related stories. Jacksonville is the company’s 1994 starting place. The foundation is a separate part of the story, with its own 2005 start. It now helps public-safety groups buy tools and gear.
The chain has grown far beyond one shop. Its roots still belong in Jacksonville’s business history, but that does not mean the first storefront remains open today.
For the company story, start with its current history. For the charity’s work, check the foundation itself. Keeping those two sources apart makes the timeline much easier to follow.
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Last checked against these sources: July 29, 2026.
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