Mexican quick-service restaurant leader Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. recently announced the opening of two new locations. One store is in Boise, Idaho, while the other is in Medford, Oregon. The two new Pacific Northwest franchise business locations mark progress in Del Taco’s continued growth plans, which target the entire country.
Franchisee and Cactus Enterprise LLC CEO Gary Winnen is opening the first location, complete with a drive-thru, in his hometown of Medford. This is Winnen’s fifth Del Taco location in Oregon, and he credited his success to the support the franchisor provides and the serving of fresh and high-quality menu items that provide good value.
3 Brothers Restaurants CEO and franchisee Mark Miller is opening the new Boise location, and it’s his third location in the area and his tenth Del Taco frachise location overall in the past seven years. His other stores are in Washington, Oregon and Idaho, and his goal is to open at least one new Del Taco location annually.
According to Miller, Del Taco is one of just a handful of quick service brands that are an upgrade to the usual fast food experience for customers while still prizing food quality. It’s these unique features and the ability to grow in a market with limited locations that set franchisees on a path to success, says Miller.
The Mexican quick-service restaurant segment is among the fastest growing franchise opportunity in the industry, and Del Taco is attracting a customer base across various income levels, age groups and other demographics. The franchise business’ menu has made-to-order items that are prepared using fresh ingredients, and Del Taco is targeting innovation and staying on top of trends while meeting customer demand for quality food at a value price point.
Del Taco currently offers menu items made from fresh ingredients, including handmade pico de gallo salsa, marinated grilled chicken, lard-free beans and grated cheddar cheese. Its menu includes breakfast items, Mexican staples and some American fare, such as hamburgers and milkshakes.
Earlier in 2015, Del Taco made the move to a public company, positioning the brand for even more growth. As the Mexican quick-service restaurant segment continues to gain steam, the franchise business is seeking more franchise partners as part of its expansion plans. Del Taco has close to 550 locations across 16 states and serves around 3 million customers each day.
Del Taco Director of Franchise Development Laura Tanaka spoke about the franchise opportunity’s solid growth across brand new and existing U.S. markets. According to Tanaka, Del Taco is looking to build on its national success by finding franchisees who are committed to the brand.
Currently, Del Taco is looking for franchisees in the Pacific Northwest region who have real estate and food operations experience. Del Taco offers full training and marketing and operational support to its franchisees.
