Changing Communities Through Kindness One Sandwich at a Time

For St John Ambulance volunteer and Subway franchisee Wendy Stewart, business has never just been about profit; it has always started with a simple question: “How can I help?”

That mindset has shaped not only her career but the communities she serves across the Bay of Plenty and Waiakato.

As a mother who began as a store manager in 2007, Stewart now owns six Subway restaurants in Matamata, Cambridge, Waihi, Ngatea, Katikati and Thames.

In 2023, she was named Australia and New Zealand Franchisee of the Year. But accolades are not what drive her.

“It just sort of comes naturally,” she said.

“I like to look after people and take care of people. If I’ve got something, I like to share it.”

Each winter sports season, Stewart’s stores collectively give away around 700 ‘Player of the Day’ vouchers every week to junior athletes.

Rather than donating cash, she prefers to give food.

“Food costs to us are a lot lower than they are for families,” she said.

“A gift of vouchers or a platter is such a greater value than a dollar.”

The approach has created a cycle of support. Families return to her stores after games, and local teams gather there to celebrate.

“You’re creating wealth within your business by looking after your community,” she said. “You create your own reward.”

Despite rising living costs, Stewart said the need for support is not new.

This perspective is rooted in her own early years with the franchise.

“I think it’s always been valuable. There’s always been people in need.”

Wendy (centre) alongside her son Chris Jackson and daughter Tiffany Jackson. IMAGE // Supplied

As a single parent, Stewart often brought her young children to work in the early mornings.

“They were five and six when they used to come in and help where they could,” she said.

Over time, those small tasks grew into something more substantial. Today, both of her children are part of the business.

Her son, now 21, has become a part-owner and is starting to build his own pathway in franchising. Her daughter has taken on administrative and accounting responsibilities across the six stores.

“It’s all they know,” Stewart said. “We’ve created the business to support them and give them a legacy.”

Stewart’s commitment to community extends well beyond her restaurants.

Eighteen months ago, she joined St John Ambulance as a volunteer.

What began as a once-a-week commitment quickly became something more consuming.

“You turn around and go, how did I get here?” she said, “but I couldn’t imagine not doing it now.”

Her involvement reflects the same values she applies in business, values she says were passed down by her parents.

“Always look after other people and have an open heart,” she said.

“I’ve always got a spare room when someone needs it. I do that with my staff as well.”

That culture has helped shape long-term staff loyalty, with many employees staying for years and progressing into leadership roles.

“It’s exciting watching people grow and develop.”

Between running six stores, supporting community groups and volunteering in emergency services, Stewart admits life can be intense.

“There are times I’m still working at 11 o’clock at night, or I’ve done a full day and then a night shift,” she said. “You think, okay, I need a rest.”

Four years ago, she had two restaurants and time to watch television. Now, she laughs, those simple moments are harder to come by.

“I just want to watch TV,” she said.

Still, she has no plans to slow down.

“I’m just enjoying life, if you’ve got good, supportive family and friends around you, you can do anything.”

For now, Stewart’s focus is on upgrading her existing stores and continuing to support the communities that have supported her.

When it comes to future plans, she is keeping an open mind.

“You never know what opportunities are going to knock at your door,” she said.

What remains certain is the philosophy at the heart of everything she does.

“My growth is your growth,” she said, “it’s not just about me.”

And in towns across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, that approach is already leaving a lasting impact, one sandwich, one team, and one act of kindness at a time.