Firehouse Subs Jason Pullman opened a Firehouse Subs franchise store July 1 at 4135 S. National Ave. A former Subway franchisee in northwest Arkansas, Pullman bought the rights to Springfield and Branson after two years of dining and researching the company. "The sandwiches just sucked me in," he said, noting the use of choice, steamed meat served on toasted bread. Pullman said he invested about $300,000 to open the restaurant, including the $20,000 franchise fee. Firehouse Subs, which operates nearly 650 stores, charges 6 percent royalties, he said. Founded in 1994 by two brothers from a fire and police family in Jacksonville, Fla., the chain has an aggressive plan to open another 1,300 stores by 2020. Pullman is planning four stores and targeting north Springfield for his second location. He leases 2,800 square feet from Jared Enterprises for undisclosed terms. Firehouse Subs employs 25 under the management of Angie Faust. Hours: 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Phone: (417) 887-4848.