QDOBA Signs 17-Unit San Diego Development Deal as Franchise Expansion Accelerates

QDOBA Mexican Eats is adding 17 restaurants in San Diego County under a new development agreement with Hyperion Brands LLC, a San Diego-based multi-unit operator, as the Mexican fast-casual chain continues to push franchise-led growth.

The deal expands QDOBA’s presence in California and follows an agreement announced earlier this year with an experienced QSR operator to develop restaurants in Ventura and Santa Barbara.

QDOBA currently has approximately 875 restaurants systemwide and is targeting roughly 2,000 locations, with plans to open about...

QDOBA Adds Atlanta and Nashville Development Deals as Franchise Growth Ramps Up

QDOBA Mexican Eats is accelerating franchise-led expansion with two new development deals that will add 50 restaurants in Atlanta and Nashville, plus an acquisition that boosts its Pacific Northwest footprint.

The brand, now the No. 2 player in Mexican fast casual, and its franchise partners operate more than 865 restaurants. QDOBA has set aggressive goals: roughly doubling to about 2,000 units in eight years, opening about 100 restaurants a year, and growing franchised locations to roughly 85% of the system.

"We're thrilled to partner...

QDOBA Brings Back Bold Summer Flavors with New Steak Offering, Dessert and Loyalty Rewards Program

QDOBA is heating up summer with the introduction of its new Spicy Tequila Lime Steak, a limited-time protein featuring the brand's signature steak, Cholula® Original Hot Sauce and a zesty tequila lime flavor.

"Summer is an opportunity to bring guests fresh, unexpected flavors and even more reasons to choose QDOBA," said Jon Burke, Chief Marketing Officer at QDOBA. "With Spicy Tequila Lime Steak, Churro Chips and our new Summer Rewards on Q initiative, we're pairing bold seasonal...

Foodservice Finds Momentum This Holiday Season Amid Shifting Consumer Spending

As the holidays approach and the year winds down, the foodservice industry competes with retail on how consumers stretch their dollars during "the most wonderful time of the year."

CNBC recently reported that, based on restaurant purchasing data, consumers continue to dine out, but many are opting for appetizer items instead of entrée menu options.

Despite the challenges of disease, supply issues, and rising costs, the American foodservice industry remains resilient and continues to find ways to tap into consumer spending this December, even as some consumers scale back.

Inside QDOBA's Growth Strategy with New CMO Jon Burke

Expana recently had the chance to catch up with Jon Burke, the newly promoted Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of QDOBA.  He offered a behind-the-scenes look at what’s next for the rapidly expanding restaurant chain. With over 825 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico and a pipeline of 600 more, QDOBA is gearing up for its first national marketing campaign. 

In the announcement about this promotion, CEO John Cywinkski said, "Jon is a trusted and respected leader who has earned this opportunity...