CANTON, N.C. — Just four years after launching his first restaurant, local entrepreneur Howard Knepper is expanding Philly Italian Pasta and Subs beyond Canton, North Carolina, setting the stage for a regional franchise rollout across the Southeast.
Founded in 2021, the carryout-only sub and pasta shop is preparing to open new locations in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham, with further expansion plans in South Carolina and Tennessee. The move marks a significant milestone for Knepper, who is now navigating the world of franchising for the first time.
“I’m having fun with this,” Knepper said. “The fact that I’m franchising is even more exciting. I really think this thing is going to fly.”…