QSR Interactive Reports
From the pages of Restaurant Franchising
Salsarita’s
Low startup costs and an operator-based system at Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina are big draws for motivated franchisees.
Salsarita's

Salsarita’s has built its name on freshness, and now the company is looking for a fresh crop of franchisees to help bring the brand to new markets.

Positioned in the fast-growing “health Mex” category, Salsarita’s takes pride in using only quality ingredients for its made-to-order burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, enchiladas, and salads.

“We make our food using the freshest ingredients and only make enough to last us that day or even that meal,” says business development manager Tim Carter. “This keeps the operation lean and our flavors fresh.”

The chain’s Quick Cantina, featuring a margarita bar, helps further distinguish it among fast-casuals, and a vibrant catering service provides another avenue for sales growth.

“Our operations department and franchisees have worked together to streamline the logistics so that a large volume of catering can be accomplished without disrupting in-store operations,” Carter says. “This means we can provide our operators an efficient, streamlined way to increase sales with little to no additional overhead.”

Low startup costs and an operator-based system are big draws for motivated franchisees. Candidates are invited to meet Salsarita’s owners and support staff face-to-face at headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, and once they sign on, success becomes a collaborative effort. Corporate programs are in place to help out with business development, real estate selection, construction, marketing, training, and operations.

“It is incumbent on us as a franchisor to understand on a very personal level what a franchisee is seeking to achieve when they partner with us,” Carter says. “To that end, we serve as a mentor to our business partners in a number of areas of business support.”

Opportunities for new franchisees are available in a variety of markets across the country, and Salsarita’s offers protected territories for multi-unit franchisees. The best way for operators to maximize their investment is with three to five stores, but single-unit ownerships are also available.

“If we understand what the franchisee is seeking to achieve, and their goals are achievable with our system, we can tailor a relationship where everyone can win,” Carter explains.

There’s also plenty of room to grow within the Salsarita’s system, which opened its 100th location early this year.

“We want successful operators to thrive and multiply,” Carter says. “To do that, we must provide them an arrangement where they have room to grow. That way, they can focus on operational success secure in the knowledge that corporate understands what comes next for them.”

For more information about franchising opportunities with Salsarita’s, visit www.salsaritas.com.