INTRODUCING MATT LIGGETT: FIREHOUSE SUBS AREA REPRESENTATIVE, FRANCHISEE AND FATHER

Introducing Matt Liggett: Firehouse Subs Area Representative, Franchisee and Father 

In honor of Father’s Day on June 20, we are recognizing some of our amazing Franchisee Fathers who work closely with their kids in their Firehouse Subs restaurants. 

Multi-unit franchisee Matthew Liggett opened his first Firehouse Subs restaurant in 2012 in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania and now owns and operates an additional restaurant in Boardman, Ohio while also overseeing 18 restaurants as a Firehouse Subs Area Representative. His daughter, Tess Liggett, loved spending time with her dad and learning about the life of a restaurateur when she was younger. She quickly followed in his footsteps and now works side by side in their Boardman, Ohio family restaurant.

In what capacity do you work with your daughter at Firehouse Subs? 

My daughter Tess has always served as our “utility” person. Ranging from washing dishes at 11 years old to delivering catering orders at age 20, she is always someone I can count on. When we need extra help around the restaurant, who do we call? Tess!

What’s your favorite part about being a dad? 

To me, being a father has always been about mentoring, teaching right from wrong, coaching and being able to adapt parenting styles when life throws everything at you and your family.

What’s one thing that most people don’t know about owning and operating a restaurant within a family dynamic? 

The restaurant business becomes an extension of your family. My family always finds a way to jump in with helping hands when needed. Their support is endless.

Are there any similarities between being a father and a franchisee? If so, what? 

Definitely! The two seem to always cross paths in similar ways. I recognize similarities when reminding myself to remain positive, practice good listening skills and patience, all while being firm when necessary.

What does your ideal Father’s Day look like?

My ideal Father’s Day would be to completely disconnect -- no phone, no internet and no technology. I’d love to just be able to go on a hike with my family and not worry about the world around me.

What are your family's favorite Firehouse Subs? 

Hands down, the Italian™ sub paired with our brownies. Delicious!

What activities do you enjoy doing together outside of the restaurant? 

My family loves to travel to national parks and explore the mountains in the west region of our great country.

What advice do you have for new dads? 

There is no playbook or app to download and follow to learn how to be the perfect dad. Just remember you are always a parent first and not your child’s best friend. Teach them everything you know and encourage them to put themselves in situations and experiences that they can learn even more from.