More Subways than McDonald's

I was kind of surprised to learn that there are now more Subway restaurants than McDonald's.

The sub sandwich chain surpassed the world's largest hamburger chain in terms of number of stores in the U.S. in 2002 and now it has taken the global lead.

Subway had 33,749 restaurants worldwide at the end of last year, according to the company. McDonald's Corp. had 32,737, according a regulatory filing.

Subway is entirely franchisee-owned. That has been part of its success, Pace said. Its smaller-format stores cost less to open and operate than other chain restaurants. The company's emphasis on cost-control, marketing and advertising has also helped grow the brand.

Subway, like many restaurant chains, is making a major push in international markets.

Subway is also the leader in giving the customer more healh conscious food options.