Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, located at 101 N. Court Street, is known nationwide for their amazing sandwich deals and freaky fast service. But franchise owner Matt Kritzer has made it his mission for the Florence location to be known for their amazing customer service and community outreach as well.

Matt grew up in Effingham, Illinois and then moved to Champaign where he worked for a local Jimmy John’s. Upper management was so impressed with his ideas and work ethic that Matt was put in charge of corporate catering under the direction of corporate owner, James North which has since become part of Inspire Brands.

After six years of increasing sales in corporate catering, Matt went after his dream of owning his own Jimmy John’s franchise in June of 2011. He and his family relocated to Huntsville, Alabama, and he, along with his partners Tim and his wife Cyndy Woodard, tackled the southeast region. The trio opened stores in Huntsville, Madison, and Decatur. Although he loved Huntsville and the community, Matt wanted to keep expanding. At the time there was a Jimmy John’s already in Florence under a different franchise owner. The opportunity finally presented itself to Matt and his partners in June of 2018 to take over the Florence location. 

Since then, Matt has devoted his time and energy into running the Florence Jimmy John’s location while giving back to the Shoals community. “I don’t lay my head down at night in the Shoals, but that’s the only way I’m not involved in this community. I believe leadership comes from being a servant and leading by example,” says Matt. 

Matt also believes in teaching his employees valuable life skills that will set them up for success in the future. “We teach our employees to be authentic,” he explains. “I want them to always go the extra mile when it comes to customer service, whether that be complimenting our customers, holding open the door, or just noticing them when they may have gone all day feeling invisible. We operate under the Golden Rule and do unto others as we would have done to ourselves.” 

Matt and his team also believe in supporting the Shoals community. The local Jimmy John's team recently pledged $500 to the Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter to sponsor ten pet adoption fees and gave another $500 to Chloe’s Fund, which assists with vet bills for low-income families. This cause is especially close to Matt’s heart as he has cared for rescue animals since he was young.

“My family and I are huge animal lovers, and realize our pets are our family. Just like our customers help support our family, we want to give back to support their own, whether they walk on two legs or four.” 

Speaking of giving back, this Thursday, February 26, Matt and his team are going all out for Jimmy John’s Customer Appreciation Day. From 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, sandwiches #1-6 will be sold for one dollar! Matt invites the Shoals community to come be a part of this special day of giving thanks to its loyal customers.

Love Jimmy John’s customer service? Leave them a 5-star review on social media and screenshot it for a free sandwich next time you visit.

For more information about Jimmy John’s delivery or catering events call 256.768.9994.