JMLM Restaurants Recipe for Success with Support from SBA

Born and raised in Northeast Iowa, Manuel “Manny” Perez started what would become a lengthy career in the restaurant industry by waiting tables after high school. Upon moving to Minnesota, he continued working at a restaurant performing a variety of duties, from dishwasher to cook, and eventually moving up to kitchen manager. Manny had a clear passion for food service and was fortunate enough to find a mentor that supported his interest by teaching him about operations, interpreting financials, and human resource management. After holding leadership positions at local restaurants for several years, Manny was ready to be self-employed.

In 1995, Manny launched JMLM Restaurants, and purchased his first business – a pizza place in Prior Lake, and eventually expanded to a second location in Jordan. After the sale of both, Manny purchased his first Subway franchise in 1997 on East Lake Street in Minneapolis. A few years later, he would purchase a second Subway location, then another, eventually expanding to 12 Subway locations throughout the Twin Cities and Southeast, Minnesota. While Manny has since sold some stores, he currently owns and operates four Subways located in Faribault, Prior Lake, the MSP Airport, and the Cincinnati Airport.

SBA has supported Manny throughout his business journey, from startup to expansion, and navigating challenging times. He has received several SBA-backed loans throughout the years, including through the 7(a) program, 504 program, both of which assisted with purchasing real estate, renovations, equipment, and operations. During the pandemic, JMLM Restaurants also benefitted from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which provided support to restaurants experiencing revenue loss due to closure. Manny quickly pivoted during the pandemic to prioritize online ordering and 3rd party delivery services, which remains a large percentage of overall sales.

Manny has been recognized nationally for his accomplishments, having received numerous awards from Subway for highest sales increase, most improved store, and best remodel. JMLM Restaurants was recognized as SBA’s Minnesota Minority Owned Small Business in 2024. Manny is willing to contribute to the betterment of his employees and his community by giving his time, expertise, and financial resources. He regularly donates to a number of schools, churches, and non-profits, and has been known to help his store staff when in need.  Manny stated, “I’m a firm believer in giving back to as many communities as I can. I have been blessed and need to help the world be a better place where I can.”