Even in the early years, the partners had people interested in opening other locations. Three pre-franchise shops were opened in neighboring communities. The first official franchise shop opened in 1988.

"We finally talked to an attorney and realized we needed to protect the Submarina name and ensure the quality of the product," said Warfield.

The first official franchise shop opened in Ridgecrest near Mammoth Lakes. Warfield's brother-in-law opened the store after having worked in the Escondido store to learn the business.

Submarina's initial slow growth has given the chain's concept time to mature. Product quality has not once been sacrificed to turn a buck.