The sandwich giant Subway is to start selling jacket potatoes for the first time as demand for the traditional British staple soars.
Called “Spudway”, 170 branches of the 2,000-strong chain will today begin a jacket potato trial until mid-April, with fillings such as cheese and beans, tuna mayo, chicken tikka and “taco beef”.
Guests will also be able to top their jacket potatoes with regular fillings from the Subway menu, including the meatball marinara. Prices will start from £4.79.
Deniz Safa, from Subway, said the brand was reacting to changing consumer demand and said jacket potatoes have been “surging in popularity” in recent years.
“We’re always looking to bring our fans delicious and customisable options that suit every taste and every budget,” she explained.
“[Our jacket potatoes] are made with British potatoes, salted butter and a double portion of cheese, plus any of our many toppings.”
Safa also acknowledged the recent buzz on social media. TikTok sensations such as the Tamworth-based seller Spudman, and the Spud Bros in Lancashire, helped to ignite something of a “potato renaissance” in 2024.
At the height of their fame, both vendors reported customer queues in their hundreds. Spud Bros launched an express hatch in Soho in the autumn.
Many believe the cost-of-living crisis has had an impact. Consumer reports in 2024 found British diners were swapping shop-bought sandwiches, sushi and salads for money jacket potatoes to save money.
Subway said its jacket potatoes will be available until April 15, with the potential for a nationwide rollout later this year. “We’re eager to see how Spudway is received,” Safa added. “If our guests love it, this could be just the beginning.”
Multiple locations. subway.com
