A Tex-Mex restaurant chain has gone bankrupt and closed 11 of its locations this week. Tijuana Flats, a Florida-based business competing with Chipotle, revealed these drastic actions following its recent sale to a new group of owners.
New Owners Plan Major Revamps at Tijuana Flats
As stated in a recent news release, Tijuana Flats, Flatheads, LLC's new owners, announced plans to revamp the store and significantly enhance customer experience. According to the company's website, previously owned by TJF USA, LLC, Tijuana Flats has over 125 locations across the Southern United States.
Joe Christina, the CEO, expressed confidence in the decisions, emphasizing their importance for the chain's sustainability. "Our company is thrilled about the new ownership group's strategy to reinvest, focus, and highlight the unique qualities that made Tijuana Flats popular," Christina remarked.
He also acknowledged the tough financial decisions necessary for the well-being of the brand in the long run. "We understand the immediate financial actions they took to ensure the long-term health of this great and iconic brand," he added.
The company disclosed that several factors, including financial performance, occupancy costs, and market conditions at each location, influenced the decision to close 11 locations. However, they have not revealed which locations will be permanently shut down.
Tijuana Flats, a Tex-Mex chain founded by Brian Wheeler in Winter Park, Florida, in 1995, has announced that it is under new ownership with plans to rejuvenate its restaurants and enhance the customer experience.
Wheeler, who opened the first location, revealed in a statement to FOX Business that he stepped away from the company in 2015 after selling it to a private equity group.
At the time of the sale, Tijuana Flats had expanded to 140 locations across five states and employed 3,000 people. "I had confidence in the new management's capability and resources to elevate the brand further," Wheeler stated.
He also expressed his sorrow over the current struggles: "It's truly heartbreaking to witness the careers and livelihoods of so many dedicated individuals affected by the unforeseen downturn of something I had devoted most of my life to."
Tijuana Flats Rolls Out New Changes
Christina, who became CEO of Tijuana Flats in November 2022, will keep leading the company. With a 40-year career in the restaurant industry, Christina brings a wealth of experience to the role, having helped expand several global brands.
The new ownership group has expressed their support for the changes Christina has implemented since his tenure began. They are optimistic about the future and look forward to working with him and his leadership team to strengthen the brand further.
For instance, this month has been a significant transformation for Tijuana Flats. The restaurant chain introduced a new menu on April 1, featuring a variety of updated options designed to appeal to its customers' tastes.
In addition to the menu update, Tijuana Flats has also implemented new take-out and delivery packaging. The redesigned packaging aims to speed up delivery times and maintain food quality during transport, ensuring that meals arrive fresh and delicious.
Amidst these changes, the company has confirmed that its leadership will remain the same. Christina remains committed to his role.
"Since joining the brand, I have been committed to leading with a vision to serve every guest the most flavorful Tex-Mex food and provide the best guest experience in the country," Christina stated, reinforcing his dedication to the company's mission.
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