MILFORD, Conn. (AP) – A group representing more than 14,500 Subway restaurant operators sued the parent company of the world’s largest sandwich chain Tuesday as part of a growing dispute over control of its advertising budget.

The North American Association of Subway Franchisees, based in Coral Gables, Fla., accused the company of pushing a new franchise agreement giving Subway complete control of money that franchise operators paid into an advertising trust fund.

While the trust fund pursued advertising with an eye for profitability, Subway could pursue advertising that only boosts sales, even if that means a tighter profit margin for franchise owners, said Jim Hansen, CEO of the franchisee association.

The fund itself filed a similar lawsuit last month. Both lawsuits sought to bar Subway from including such provisions in its new franchise agreement.

Subway had no immediate comment on the lawsuit Tuesday.

Subway, which is privately held, reported sales of more than $9 billion in 2005. It operates 26,017 restaurants in 84 countries.