So Long Subway

Sandwich shop closes today

Molokai’s sandwich shop and sole franchise eatery is closing its doors for the last time on Friday, July 15.

Subway Molokai owner Ohia Aniban said corporate difficulties with the company have made it impossible to continue business, despite the restaurant’s steady stream of customers.

“It was time to stop the bleeding and move on,” Aniban said. “It’s been more than years of fighting and unfortunately, this is the way we have to deal with the problems.”

Aniban and her husband bought the store nine years ago, building the establishment from the ground up after its initial year of struggle under the previous owner. One of their biggest achievements has been local partnership with Na Pu`uwai and other fitness programs to educate the community on healthy eating habits, Aniban said.

“The community is heartbroken that we have to close. I’ve seen weight loss with regulars and have added vegetables to many people’s diets,” Aniban said.

Subway’s nine employees, many who have been with the restaurant for years, said they are supportive of Aniban’s decision, though they and their families will suffer from the closure.