In this Q&A series, we're excited to share the inspiring stories, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped the diverse business landscape of Santa Ana. Join us as we dive into the experiences of local trailblazers, learning what fuels their passion and drives their success. Get ready to be captivated by the resilience and innovation that define the entrepreneurial spirit of our community. Let's get after it!
Meet Vince Gracida Franchise Owner of Subway
Q: We'd love to kick things off by getting to know you a bit better. Could you share a little about yourself and the story behind your journey so far?
A: My wife and I came into the country back in 1999 as immigrants- we now have 4 kids - I worked 10 years as a auto mechanic then I moved into a communications company (still working there ) and my wife worked all this time in the fast food industry , after years of hard work and savings we had the opportunity in May 2022 to buy our subway franchise .
Q: We're curious about your experience growing up, living or working in Santa Ana. What does Santa Ana mean to you, and how has it shaped who you are today?
A: Santa Ana means a lot to us , back in 1999 we felt at home when we heard our language ,when we saw some of our traditions , but specially because we were able to attend mass in Spanish since we did not know the language 4th street was our getaway on the weekends.
Q: What are your hopes and dreams for Santa Ana's future? What kind of changes would you love to see in the community?
A: I would like to see more of our culture and traditions and more viability to small businesses owners.
Q: Every path has its ups and downs. Looking back, what have been some challenges you've faced, and what lessons have you picked up along the way?
A: The challenges that we faced as a business owners was to know that there is more to it then just showing up to work , specially when I still have my day job - we did not know a lot about the formulas to make the subs but luckily we had great employees that helped us get through. Lessons that we learned is that we should’ve looked more into the business before coming along but now we know how to handle everything and we make a great team - hard work and dedication shaped us to be successful.
Q: We're all ears when it comes to learning about your work and what lights you up. Is there anything special you're currently working on that you're excited about? We'd love to hear what's keeping you busy these days!
A: With all the changes in the state and economy being the way it is , we are trying to raise our sales by offering deals and getting the community to know us as the small owners we are and not the franchise behind us , every customer that comes into our restaurant is treated friendly and with respect, besides that we care about offering great food with fresh ingredients.
Q: We're sure our readers would love to keep in touch and follow along with your adventures. What's the best way for them to do that?
A: They can call me, text me or email me , I’d love to hear in what ways I could improve , there is also a tik tok for the store. Follow my tiktok here
Q: Before we wrap up, we want to hand the mic over to you. Is there a message you're eager to get out there? Maybe something you wish people would ask you more often?
A: We want to get the message out that this subway is owned by people that work hard , we came from Mexico looking for the American dream and every day that we show up to our store to offer our friendship, our food and we give our best each and every time is to let our community know that behind the big franchise name is us , a humble family trying to better ourselves.
Location: 2321 E 4th St Suite B, Santa Ana, CA 92705
Vince's wife behind the counter
Vince's little helper aka daughter
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