How E.A. Sween is helping micro market operators boost profits with high quality, long-shelf-life sandwiches

“There is an art and the science that goes into making a sandwich that gets frozen, then slacked, and sold refrigerated,” said Jeff Kjome, vice president of brand and innovation food solutions at E.A. Sween Co. Their introduction of delicious new selections in February is more evidence of E.A. Sween’s commitment to providing quality sandwiches, consistently in tune with popular taste trends, featuring extended shelf-life packaging.

Kjome notes that the success of E.A. Sween’s sandwiches and wraps is the result of the experience and skill required to develop products of superior quality that offer an extended shelf life — using modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). In my own taste test, their sandwiches and wraps are impressive on every level — attractive packaging and graphics, popular flavor profiles, high protein, generous portions. And, most importantly — speaking from personal experience — when it comes to flavor, they are on par with a fresh sandwich or wrap.

Quality and Extended Shelf Life

“There’s a long-held stereotype that consumers only buy sandwiches in a package when it’s a last resort,” Kjome said. “At E.A. Sween, we make sandwiches that are immediately frozen to help preserve and extend the fresh taste. Once our sandwiches are slacked to a refrigerated state, our expertise in MAP packaging preserves the quality for up to 30 days more. So, the quality of our sandwiches stays as consistent as possible throughout the entire lifecycle.”

For micro markets, E.A. Sween offers two product lines that have proven to be a perfect fit for successful operators.

Deli Express is the flagship brand. Deli Express is what the company was built on. The brand is known for its consistent quality and great taste, for nearly 70 years. Deli Express is all about familiar flavors that people often don’t have time to prepare for themselves.
Market Sandwich is the premium sandwich brand. Market Sandwich is just a step above in terms of price point and perception. This brand is all about ingredients that you expect to see at a better lunch venue, including oat-topped bread, smoked meat and cheese, and artisan-style wraps.

Kjome said the four newest offerings for micro market operators — the ones I tasted, just released in February — have been a big hit. “We had high expectations based on trade show feedback, but out of the gate, these products have exceeded our aggressive forecasts. Customers are ordering them at incredibly strong levels, and very early consumer reaction has been overwhelmingly positive,” he added.

Kjome described the new products.

Market Sandwich Chipotle Chicken Wrap from E.A. Sween

Market Sandwich Chicken Chipotle Wrap

“Our new Market Sandwich wrap delivers a smokey, spicy punch with grilled white meat chicken, pepperjack cheese and roasted poblano peppers. Topped with chipotle ranch dressing and wrapped in a chipotle flour tortilla, it’s a wrap that’s sure to satisfy,” Kjome said. “Market Sandwich wraps in total have been the fastest growing segment for the brand over the past two years. Customers like the fact that we provide a high quality eating experience, and consumers love the great taste of all five wrap varieties."

Deli Express Cuban Style Sandwich from E.A. Sween

The Deli Express Cuban Sandwich

“Our new Cuban Style sandwich is a flavor-packed journey. The combination of smoky ham, tender pulled pork, melted Swiss cheese, crisp pickles and a tangy touch of yellow mustard will satisfy consumers’ cravings for something that’s truly unforgettable.”

Deli Express BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich from E.A. Sween

The Deli Express BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich

“This sandwich takes tender pulled pork to the next level. The combination of delicious pork flavored with real Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce, served up on a soft sesame seed bun, is a memorable eating experience.”

Deli Express Roast Beef & Cheese from E.A. Sween

The Deli Express Hot Roast Beef and Cheese sandwich

“For those craving something hearty, our new Hot Roast Beef and Cheese is just the thing. Tender roast beef, gooey cheese, and a hint of onion in every bite make this sandwich a go-to hit.”

2024 innovations still selling strong

While 2025 is shaping up to be a big year for E.A. Sween Company, Kjome said that his company is enjoying the success of its 2024 innovations as well. “We introduced a Deli Express Roast Beef wedge, which is a familiar flavor in a classic sandwich format. We also launched a line of three Market Sandwich subs — Ham & Swiss, Turkey & Provolone and Italian. All three have exceeded our forecasts.”

E.A. Sween to exhibit at the NAMA Show from May 7-9 in Booth #2017

Tullio's take: For operators and consumers, E.A. Sween Company is a great choice. Operators benefit from an excellent product variety to supplement their fresh food selections, a strong price point with attractive margins and virtually no waste.

“Consumers vote with their wallets, and we believe our expertise in the ‘science of sandwiches’ helps sway that vote in the direction of our brands,” said Kjome. “Be sure to try them all at the NAMA Show, booth #2017, and you will see why we are so excited about 2025.”

Kjome encourages operators to learn more by reaching out to their local E.A. Sween sales representative. If they don’t know who their representative is, they can visit the company's website, submit their contact information, and they will be contacted promptly.