Sixteen franchise-owners of O'Briens sandwich bars met today to discuss the future of their business given the downturn in the economy.
The franchisees, who run close to 50 stores between them, are seeking assistance from O'Briens in relation to rental, franchise and supply costs.
Some of them claim business is down in the order of 30%.
The meeting follows the closure of a number of stores in Waterford, Dublin and other locations in recent months.
The chairperson for the group said many shops were struggling to cover their overheads.
Brody Sweeney said it was agreed to send a letter to the management of O'Briens outlining these key concerns.
Speaking to RTE News, the founder of O'Briens Sandwich Bars said all of the company's franchisees had concerns about the high cost of doing business in the current downturn.
He said O'Briens would be pro-actively working with them to negotiate reduced rents.
He disputed a claim put forward following today's meeting that a number of franchisees were actively seeking a 3% reduction in the franchise fee.
