Wilmington native Lois Margolet, 68, founder of the Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop chain passed away from lung cancer at her home in Las Vegas early Thursday morning.
The CEO of Capriotti’s, Ashley Morris, was saddened to share the news this afternoon. In a statement to First State Update Morris said the following:
It is with a very heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our founder, Lois Margolet. Lois was a bright, giving, extraordinary woman and a pioneer in the sandwich and franchise industry. The brand she created is not just a sandwich shop, it is an institution in Delaware who’s subs have touched countless people across the country. –Ashley Morris, CEO, Capriotti’s
A short history of Capriotti’s Delaware roots can be found on their website:
Lois Margolet and her brother, Alan, started Capriotti’s in 1976. They lived in Little Italy in Wilmington, Delaware, where sandwich shops were abundant, but Lois had a dream of creating something unique. The shop began as a boarded up building beneath their apartment. They decided to name it after their grandfather, Philip Capriotti, who loved to cook.
They wanted to create a sandwich for “real turkey lovers,” so they started roasting whole fresh turkeys overnight. This concept set them apart from their competition and still does. People loved their sandwiches, and word spread about their fresh roasted turkey, quality meats and cheese, fresh rolls and produce. It was a regular occurrence to hear people saying “Capriotti’s makes the best sandwich I’ve ever eaten!
Over time, their popularity grew and in 1987, their cousin, Diane Rizzo, joined them in opening additional locations in Delaware. Signature sandwiches, such as the “Bobbie®” and others, were introduced. The formula was so successful that franchising was offered. Today, Capriotti’s Sandwich Shops located around the country and continue the tradition started in Delaware over 30 years ago.
Image Credits: Capriotti's