MUTTS Canine Cantina has signed a multi-unit franchise deal to bring locations to El Paso, Texas, and Tucson, Arizona. New franchisee April Mendoza of Pups and Pals, LLC, plans to open multiple MUTTS locations, with a focus on the Southwest I-10 corridor, offering guests an entertaining location to socialize with friends and pets in a fun, safe space.
“It is an exciting time to join the MUTTS Canine Cantina family. While 2020 has been a year filled with unexpected challenges, one thing is certain – people have been spending more time outdoors and looking for unique ways to enjoy themselves with their pets,” says Mendoza.
A customer-turned-franchisee, Mendoza will provide the El Paso and Tucson communities with a place to relax and have fun with their four-legged family members. Bringing her years of experience as Head of Development and Branding at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas USA/International and Fine Dining General Manager at Wynn Las Vegas, Mendoza is ready to make MUTTS Canine Cantina “the most popular pet-friendly urban oasis within the Southwest Region.”
“As one of the newest franchisees, the realization of owning a business while combining my diverse experience in the hospitality industry and passion for dogs became a ‘paw-tential’ opportunity that I couldn’t resist,” says Mendoza. “This year has allowed me to make a major career pivot and walk side by side with the MUTTS and Fransmart teams on this new journey.”
The addition of the MUTTS Canine Cantina franchise fills a need in both the El Paso, Texas, and Tucson, Arizona communities for a safe, outdoor dining experience combined with an entertainment element for pets and their owners.
MUTTS Canine Cantina was founded in 2013 by Kyle Noonan and Josh Sepkowitz, founders of FreeRange Concepts. The concept has grown rapidly since, with 13 locations in development and existing restaurants in operation in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. Locations currently in development include Austin and Allen, Texas, as well as Denver.
“We couldn’t be more excited about adding April to the MUTTS family,” says Michelle Boggs, managing partner of MUTTS Canine Cantina. “April’s extensive background in the hospitality industry, and her passion for the four-leggeds, makes her a wonderful partner in our growing number of franchisees.”
