USA: Taco John’s adds 18 locations in c-stores and travel plazas

Iconic quick-service franchise celebrates openings with Love’s and Loaf ‘N Jug stores as it ramps up national franchise development efforts this year.

© Taco John's

Taco John’s International Inc. (Taco John’s), a leading quick-service Mexican franchise, is rapidly expanding its footprint through franchising with experienced convenience store and travel plaza operators.

As part of its 10-unit franchise agreement with Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores (Love’s), four Taco John’s restaurants opened in Love’s stores already and three are set to open in the coming months. In addition, the brand has an eight-unit agreement in place with Loaf ‘N Jug, one of the leading convenience store chains in the Rocky Mountain region. Two Taco John’s restaurants opened in February at Loaf ‘N Jug locations.

“We are an ideal co-development partner for convenience stores and travel plazas. Our flexible layouts can be adapted to a variety of site configurations, and our high-quality Mexican menu provides an alternative to the usual burgers, pizza and sandwiches,” said Brooks Speirs, Vice President for Franchise Development at Taco John’s. “In addition, we serve all dayparts, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and late-night - perfect for c-stores, many of which have 24-7 operating hours.”

Taco John’s franchising requirements for convenience store locations include drive-thru access, a minimum of 100,000 gallons monthly fuel sales and $30,000 monthly inside sales. Taco John’s significant drive-thru business, which represents 65% of systemwide sales, has helped insulate the brand from recent market shifts.