Tijuana Flats, a fast-casual restaurant chain based in Maitland, Florida, US, has announced its acquisition by Flatheads following the closure of 11 outlets and a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
The sale is part of a strategic review initiated by the restaurant chain in November 2023 to explore various options, including a potential sale.
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The company had been considering different avenues, including a sale, to enhance its operations and financial standing.
As per the company, the decision to close its locations was the result of a unit-by-unit analysis of financial performance, occupancy costs, and market conditions.
The company has assured that it will continue to support its franchisees and that the remaining locations will operate as usual.
Flatheads has expressed its commitment to the Tijuana Flats brand, emphasising a return to the brand’s original values of customer service, quality food, and fair pricing.
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By GlobalDataJoe Christina, a restaurant professional with 40 years of experience, will continue in his role as CEO of Tijuana Flats.
He joined the company in November 2022 and has been instrumental in implementing changes to strengthen the brand.
Joe Christina said: “Our company is excited by the new ownership group’s plan to reinvest, focus, and emphasize the things that originally brought so many people to love Tijuana Flats. We understand the immediate financial actions taken by them to ensure the long-term health of this great and iconic brand.”
Flatheads has voiced support for the initiatives introduced by CEO Joe Christina and plans to work closely with him to reinforce the brand’s market position.
The new ownership group is focused on enhancing quality controls, service speed, food consistency, serving sizes, and the overall in-store experience.
As part of its revitalisation strategy, the company intends to renovate many Tijuana Flats locations, aiming to improve the dining experience.
Christina continued: “Our new partners share a desire to continue the corporate culture and vision of Tijuana Flats, protecting and supporting our team members and franchisees so they can best serve their customers.
“With this new ownership structure and a robust strategic plan, we are well-positioned for an emergence in the fast-casual space. I look forward to evolving and expanding our brand and supporting the communities we serve.”
