It is really easy to find such sandwiches here in DFW. Lots of local shops, no few chains - not including Subway or Quiznos in that list, either. Don’t know what to tell you on the lack of availability in your area.
In my area the family delis (which were everywhere 30 years ago) are dying, so sandwiches either come from a chain or the pre-made garbage in supermarkets and convenience stores. A lot of it is demographic; the Americans are disappearing, and the replacements have their own “sandwiches” (empanadas, tacos).
The family pizzerias are hanging on, despite the competition of the chain stores which have sprung up everywhere here; the difference in quality and taste is incredible. I live near the pizzeria featured in the “Sopranos” intro; it now has Egyptian owners (but kept all the mob paraphernalia as the décor).