2022 HAS BEEN A YEAR OF CHANGE AND GROWTH AND GIVING BACK
This past year we have made strategic changes to drive our next chapter of growth. In support of this initiative, we brought new management team members on board to guide our business expansion through growing our franchising system.
Here’s a closer look at each of these accomplishments and more.
Still the Hottest Franchise Investment Opportunity
Our growth has strategically been a slow burn over the past 27 years so we could perfect providing lower build-out costs, fresher ingredients, wider Tex-Mex menu selections, an unmatched hot sauce bar, latest technology, and an awesome guest experience. This year we are bringing heat to our growth strategy, offering franchise opportunities for select operators who are seeking a bold, exciting growth concept with proven returns.
New CEO Fueling Growth
In October Joe Christina was named CEO of Tijuana Flats. A seasoned restaurant leader, he brings strong strategic, leadership, and management skills with a demonstrated track record of delivering sustained revenue and profit growth in dynamic and changing markets, which will be instrumental as the company continues to focus on growth through franchising.
System Changes Help Franchisees Increase Revenue
The past year also found us continuing to modernize and improve system processes. These changes include advancements in design to generate more sales per unit with enhanced functionality and a systemwide digital transformation with digital menu boards, kitchen display system in the back of the house, and third-party delivery pickup area along with an order status board. We also expanded delivery through DoorDash to more than 100 of our locations. These changes help our franchisees build revenue, maximize throughput, and increase sales.
Growth Through Non-Traditional Markets
During our renewed growth, Tijuana Flats will target corporate markets where we are a fit while also exploring non-traditional real estate. Our 2021 concession deal with the University of Florida and Florida State University – which gives Flats prime spots in the concession areas at the football, basketball, and baseball stadiums – was our initial entrance into this lucrative market. This deal has primed our brand for further nontraditional segments. We have plans to enter some airport spaces in the near future.
We Made All Of The Hottest Lists
Our unique model has made us one of the Southeast’s most popular growth concepts since 1995. This commitment to excellence is what has fueled our growth and helped us make all of the hottest industry rankings. Here are a few:
- 2022 Technomic Top 500 Chain Restaurant
- 2022 Franchise Times Top 500
- Best of Orlando 2022: Food & Dining Category
Doing Good Fuels Our Fire
Through our Just In Queso Foundation, we have supported many worthwhile causes in the communities we serve throughout 2022. Perhaps most notable, in November we raised $56,484 to support the life-saving work of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Together with our franchisees and our generous customers, we have donated over $1 million to fight breast cancer. Giving back has always been a big part of who we are as people and as a brand. It always will be.
Wishing you continued good health and a happy and prospsperous 2023!