Subway has closed more than 1,000 stores in the United States.

Subway, the largest fast food chain in the world, is struggling to adapt to a more health-conscious customer base. So downsizing is fast.

Subway closed more than 1,000 restaurants in the United States last year – much more than originally planned.

The company's net closures include the new Subway stores opened last year, which means that the number of closed stations is even greater than what the company predicts. The private company confirmed the number of net closures to CNN Business, but did not reveal the number of openings. The closures had already been reported by the New York Post.

Subway began its restaurant purge in full force in 2016, when it had more closures in the United States than openings for the first time in its history. She announced plans to continue closing restaurants while she was trying to become more profitable.

"Our main objectives are to generate guest traffic and increase the profits of franchise owners. Everything we do must achieve these goals, "said a spokesman for Subway in a statement.

Subway said that he was going to reshape or move many stores that he intends to keep open.

Like its fast-food rivals, Subway is aggressively redefining its stores to fit the future. Two years ago, she announced plans to roll out online order kiosks with mobile payment options, more comfortable seats, and USB charging ports. These store changes have also put a renewed emphasis on fresh produce.

Subway has approximately 24,000 stores in the United States, according to the company's website. It has approximately 42,000 stores worldwide. That's 17% more than McDonald's, Subway's closest competitor. McDonald's has approximately 36,000 restaurants.

As consumer tastes change, fast-food and fast-service restaurants struggle to keep up. Starbucks and Burger King have redesigned and added the service to the wheel. McDonald's has bought a technology startup that will help improve mobile controls. Chipotle is redefining the stores and its menus. Panera has completely revised its breakfast options. And the entire industry has begun to offer healthier food options and digital kiosks for faster orders.