Del Taco, a leader in the Mexican quick-service restaurant category, announced that the brand is continuing its strategic expansion into the southern region of the United States with a recently signed 10-store development agreement for the Knox County, Tennessee area. With nearly 550 restaurants in 16 states, this latest development supports the company’s long-term growth initiatives to bring Del Taco’s UnFreshing Believable, made-to-order Mexican and American favorites to new states and guests across the country.

The new Del Taco franchise group plans to open ten Del Taco locations in Knox, Sevier, Blount, Loudon, Hamblen, and Anderson Counties by 2021, with the first restaurant slated to open in 2016. They decided to expand their current franchise portfolio after realizing a significant growth opportunity in the quick service space.

“Del Taco’s commitment to quality, freshness and guest experience drew us to the company,” says a representative from the new franchise group. “The iconic brand is a proven leader in the [quick service] category and offers a delicious menu that translates well across the country.  Del Taco has provided tremendous support throughout the process and we’re looking forward to being a part of the company’s success story.”

With its fresh, prepared-to-order Mexican and American classics drawing success nationwide, Del Taco is seeking additional franchise partners for a variety of markets.

“Del Taco has experienced solid franchise growth through the years in both loyal and brand new markets across the U.S.,” says Laura Tanaka, director of franchise development. “We’re looking to build upon that national success and to continue to partner with qualified franchisees committed to the Del Taco brand.”