Bringing Lennys Back to Downtown Pensacola: Meet Will Morin and Kent Simmons

Every Lennys Grill & Subs opening has a story. In downtown Pensacola, Florida, franchise owners Will Morin and Kent Simmons saw an opportunity to bring a familiar brand to a neighborhood ready for a convenient, freshly prepared meal.

Their vision reaches beyond opening a sandwich shop. By serving downtown professionals, local residents, and visitors enjoying the nightlife, Will and Kent are working to make Lennys a regular part of life in Pensacola’s historic district.

Ribbon cutting at Pensacola, FL opening

Recognizing an Opportunity Downtown

For Will and Kent, the opportunity started with understanding the neighborhood and what its customers needed.

“For years, the historic district has lacked a dedicated sandwich shop where people can grab a quick lunch, dinner or late-night meal,” Simmons told the Pensacola News Journal. “We saw an opportunity to bring back a brand people know and love while creating something unique that serves downtown businesses during the day and Pensacola’s growing nightlife scene after dark.”

That local perspective shaped their approach. Downtown offers different dining occasions throughout the day, from office workers looking for a quick lunch to friends searching for something to eat after an evening out.

“Downtown Pensacola has two major audiences—people who work here during the day and people who come downtown to enjoy the nightlife,” Morin told the publication. “We built this location to serve both. We want to be the go-to lunch spot for downtown businesses and office workers while also becoming the place people think of when they’re looking for great food after a night out with friends.”

A Regional Brand with National Recognition

Morin was also drawn to the national recognition Lennys has earned despite its regional footprint and Southern roots. For him, the Pensacola restaurant represents an opportunity to offer a fresh, affordable option that customers can make part of their everyday routines.

Guests can expect the deli sandwiches, grilled cheesesteaks, wraps, and other favorites that have helped build the Lennys following. Will and Kent’s goal is to pair that familiar menu with a convenient downtown experience that gives people a reason to return.

Building a Business Around the Community

For entrepreneurs considering franchise ownership, their story highlights the importance of understanding your market. Will and Kent identified the customers they wanted to serve and the role their restaurant could play in the neighborhood.

Opening the doors is the beginning. Building relationships, leading a team, and consistently delivering a great guest experience are what turn a new restaurant into a local staple.

Morin summed up the experience he hopes guests take away: “Man, that was really good. I’m definitely going back.”

We’re proud to celebrate Will and Kent’s opening and welcome this next chapter for Lennys in Pensacola.

Could Your Community Be Next?

Interested in bringing Lennys to your market? Request franchise information at lennysfranchise.com to explore available markets, investment requirements, training and support, and the steps to ownership.

Owner quotes and reporting sourced from the Pensacola News Journal.