【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. nickname / ˈnɪkˌneɪm / (v.) – to be given another name in place of one’s name
Example: They nicknamed his brother the “Sandwich King”.
2. pride / praɪd / (v.) – to be proud of someone or something
Example: She prides herself for establishing her business on her own.
3. slump / slʌmp / (v.) – to fall or drop
Example: The company’s sales slumped after a toxic ingredient was found in its food products.
4. additive / ˈæd ɪ tɪv / (n.) – something added to increase the quality of something
Example: The restaurant claims to use only natural additives in its food.
5. rock / rɒk / (v.) – to shock or affect something
Example: The restaurant was rocked by a scandal last year.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
A sandwich shop has been nicknamed “Anti-Subway” for its sales strategy that is different to Subway.
Subway was previously widely known as the sandwich shop that offers a wide selection of low-calorie sandwiches with the freshest vegetables. However, in recent years, its image has somewhat changed because some customers feel that the ingredients now contain more additives and processed food. As Subway's sales slump, a less popular sandwich chain has slowly taken a share of the sandwich shop market—Firehouse Subs.
While Subway prides itself for the freshness of its ingredients, Firehouse Subs promotes itself as the sandwich shop for those with big appetites. Its huge sandwiches bursting with bold flavors are filled with lots of cheese and meat. Additionally, Firehouse Subs is said to offer more ingredients and a wider variety of side dishes than Subway.
According to Nation’s Restaurant News, Firehouse Subs is the second fastest growing franchise in the United States. Also, QSR Magazine reported that the company’s sales increased by $110 million in 2014.
While Firehouse Subs has experienced success, Subway, on the other hand, was rocked by several struggles in recent years. The company is being pressured to eliminate the use of antibiotics in its meats, but the company has expressed that this will be possible only in 2016 because it will take time to get the amount of meat needed. Last year, the chain was criticized when a chemical used in yoga mats was found in its breads. Subway has since removed the chemical, but this, along with other scandals, contributed negatively to its sales.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you think Firehouse Subs will also gain popularity in your country? Why or why not?
· What do you think Subway should do to get back on its feet?
Discussion B
· With sandwiches, which for you is more important: its taste or its nutritional value?
· What do you think makes a good sandwich? Why?
