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Editor's Note: Combining a taqueria and a sub shop makes sense, since both offer handheld meals. But the actual implementation involves a lot of coordination. In this interview, Jeff Masterjohn, Taco Del Mar Brand Leader, explains how Taco Del Mar partnered with Quiznos to create dual concept stores. The first dual-branded location opened in February 2023 in Cape Coral, FL, followed by additional units in Venice, Miami, Bradenton, and Lakeland, FL. An additional seven sites are planned for 2024 and 2025 throughout various Florida markets.
What are the advantages of a dual-concept restaurant?
Dual-concept restaurants offer advantages to the consumer and operator. For the consumer, dual-concept locations satisfy a wide range of daypart interests and a wide range of flavor interests. On top of that, multiple concepts under one “roof” offer something craveable to everyone in a group, no matter the party size. For the operator, dual concepts provide the opportunity for full utilization of equipment, cross-labor benefits, reduced infrastructure costs on a per-concept basis, and other reduced operating costs on a per-restaurant basis through ingredient sourcing efficiencies and shared technology uses.
Please describe how the kitchens of the two concepts meld in the dual concept format.
We’ve carefully designed the kitchen layout to provide industry-leading service times as well as ease of use for the team members. We have found the back-of-the-house efficiencies are best when make-lines are separated but offer equal access to shared cooking equipment such as flattops, fryers, and ovens. This layout structure also allows for dedicated team member roles and floating team member roles so labor is used as effectively as possible, ultimately, to provide an exceptional experience to the guest.
Guests show a variety of purchasing interests when visiting, depending on the daypart. During breakfast hours, the majority of guests prefer Taco Del Mar offerings, such as Breakfast Burritos, Loaded Tot Bowls, and more. As the day progresses, we see guests order from both menus more often. We are thrilled to be able to provide guests the option of brands to satisfy varying cravings and provide them a reason to visit more often.
Have the dual concept stores met expectations in terms of sales?
We have been pleased with the performance of the restaurants and are eager to support our operating partners in the continued growth of the dual-concept locations moving forward. Guests have been appreciative of the quality, uniqueness, and flavor of the products available to them in a convenient, approachable format.
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