Peter Buck's Net Worth and Achievements
Peter Buck net worth: Peter Buck was an American businessman and philanthropist who had a net worth of $2.8 billion at the time of his death. That substantial net worth positioned him as one of the wealthiest individuals in Connecticut during his lifetime. Peter, however, should not be confused with the musician Peter Buck from the band R.E.M.
Early Life and Education
Peter was born in South Portland, Maine, on December 19, 1930. He pursued his higher education at Bowdoin College, where he completed his undergraduate degree. He then went on to attain his Masters and a doctorate in physics from Columbia University.
The Subway Empire Begins
While working as a nuclear physicist in the late 1950s, Peter loaned $1000 to his friend Fred DeLuca to open a sandwich shop. Fred was struggling to pay for college, and their venture, named 'Pete's Super Submarines,' aimed to generate some necessary income. Although the initial shop saw moderate success, it inspired the opening of a second location. Despite initial struggles, Peter and Fred were determined to continue expanding.
Growth and Renaming to Subway
Their bold decision to expand paid off, and by the early 1970s, they had established 16 locations across Connecticut. Realizing the potential for further growth, they rebranded their shops to 'Subway.'
Global Success
Subway's growth trajectory soared, eventually transforming into the largest sandwich chain in the world. Today, Subway boasts more than 36,000 locations in 99 countries.