Business leaders and elected officials welcomed Jersey Mike’s to Meridian Wednesday with a ribbon cutting prior to the store’s grand opening.

The new eatery, which is known for its freshly sliced meats and cheeses, brings a new take on subs to the area as the first of its kind to open in the Queen City.

“On behalf of the City Council and the city of Meridian, thank you for choosing Meridian,” Councilman Joe Norwood Jr., who serves as council president, said. “We want to welcome you to Meridian.”

Lauderdale County Supervisor Kyle Rutledge, who serves as president of the Board of Supervisors, said Jersey Mike’s is a welcome addition to the community, and its location along North Frontage Road is ideal for drawing travelers from the interstate.

Tray Gamble, one of three partners of the franchise restaurant, said Jersey Mike’s may be a new restaurant, but all three partners have other businesses in Meridian. When making the decision to bring a new business to town, he said, finding a business that shared their values was very important.

Jersey Mike’s holds an annual day of giving on May 28, Gamble said, when all proceeds from that day are given to charity. Nationwide, he said, that amounts to approximately $20 million going to organizations that help those who need it most.

“What I’m trying to say there is Jersey Mike’s aligns with our core beliefs of giving to give,” he said. “We’re super excited about about that.”

Jamie Humphrey, who is also a partner in the restaurant, said his goal is to provide the best customer experience possible for everyone who comes through the door. The team has been working hard over the past few weeks to make sure everything is ready, he said, and they were well prepared for Wednesday’s opening.

“I want Jersey Mike’s in Meridian to be known as the best customer service restaurant you guys are going to visit. We want it to start when you walk in the front door with our greetings,” he said. “We’re going to share our lives with you guys while you’re in line waiting for your subs to be sliced, freshly prepared, and again, we just want to give you guys an experience that you’re not going to find anywhere else in Meridian.”

As part of its opening celebration, Jersey Mike’s distributed coupons throughout the community ahead of Wednesday’s ribbon cutting. The coupons allow customers to donate a minimum of $3 to Love’s Kitchen and receive a free sub in return. Residents have until Sunday to redeem the coupons and must have them on hand when they order.

Jersey Mike’s, located at 300 N. Frontage Rd., is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. Orders can be placed in store, online at jerseymikes.com or via the Jersey Mike’s app.