Remember that crazy story last year, about the guys in the States who took Subway to court because their ‘Footlong’ sandwiches were coming up as much as an inch short? Last time we checked in on this one, the Court had agreed with the plaintiffs but penalties were still pending…
The original ‘A Bun Too Short’ photo that went viral on the Web last year…
Last fall, a New York court issued a preliminary ruling that Subway had to ensure its rolls were a full 12 inches long. And each Subway store would have to have a dedicated ‘bread measurement device’ on hand. But the financial details of the settlement were not yet revealed. Now, the court has ruled that each of the 10 plaintiffs in the class action suit against Subway should receive (US)$500 for their discommodation due to the restaurant giant’s bread shortcomings. More significantly, Subway has been told to pay legal costs of about (US)$520,000.
But the details of the ruling are more interesting…
Judge Lynn Adelman noted that the plaintiff’s claims were rather weak. Thomas Zimmerman, one of the lawyers for the plaintiffs agreed, saying, “It was difficult to prove monetary damages, because everybody ate the evidence.” As a result, the suit finally centred on ‘Injunctive relief’, which resulted in the ruling that Subway must measure and monitor its rolls.
Adleman also noted that, while a less-than-12 inch roll, “might be missing a few shreds of lettuce or a gram or two of mayonnaise,” he also reminded all involved that customers can ask for more toppings if they so desire. So… Adleman concluded, “…as a practical matter, the length of the bread does not affect the quantity of food the customer receives.”
The bottom line…
Subway admitted to no wrongdoing and was not found legally culpable, and as such is pressing on with business as usual. A statement released by Subway simply says: “This allows us to move forward, without distractions, on our goal to provide great tasting sandwiches and salads, made exactly as each guest likes.” But the chain will still abide by the ruling that it must measure its rolls and ensure each customer get his or her full foot of sandwich.
What the ruling doesn’t resolve…
…Is the recent move by Subway to reduce the thickness of its meat and cheese slices. That means less of the main ingredients on its sandwiches, in spite of the fact that they give you the same number of slices. You can still get extra toppings, but extra meat or cheese will cost you more. And, of course, the restaurant chain has not reduced its prices one cent! Vote with your wallets.
As I’ve said before, I don’t always go for a Sub when I’m in a hurry and want a healthy meal. But, when I do, I go to Quizno’s, now.
~ Maggie J.