Which Taco Franchise Makes the Most Money?

Are you interested in learning which taco franchise makes the most money? If so, you’re not alone.

At Del Taco, our most common franchising questions are based around how much it costs to get started and how much money you’re able to make.

In this article, we will determine which taco franchise makes the most money by comparing the average unit volume (AUV) for each brand from the 2022 QSR 50 Report.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell is one of the most well-known taco franchises in the world. In 1962, their first location was opened in Downey, California by Glen Bell.

In the United States, Taco Bell and their franchisees operate over 7,200 restaurants that serve more than 40 million customers each week.

Taco Bell AUV: $1.8MM

The number above represents 2021 average sales per unit of franchised and company-owned stores.

Source: 2022 QSR 50 Report

Del Taco

At Del Taco, we serve freshly prepared, craveable food at an unbeatable value. This is one of the reasons we are the second largest brand in the Mexican Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) Industry.

Today, we have grown to +590 locations in +15 states thanks to our incredibly loyal fan base. We are aggressively expanding across the United States and currently seeking multi-unit restaurant operators.

Del Taco AUV: $1.6MM

This number comes from Item 19 of our latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). To receive a copy of our most recent FDD, please contact our sales and support team.

Qdoba

Qdoba is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchise that was founded in 1995 as “Zuma Fresh Mexican Grill” in Denver, CO.

Today, they have grown their taco franchise to over 700 locations across 47 different states along with Canada and Puerto Rico.

Qdoba AUV: $1.0MM

The number above represents 2021 average sales per unit of franchised and company-owned stores.

Source: 2022 QSR 50 Report

Moe’s

Moe’s Southwest Grill is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchise that was founded in Atlanta, GA by Raving Brands on December 9th, 2000.

The Moe’s menu is known for burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and salads. They even offer taco meal kits able to feed 4 to 6 people.

Moe’s AUV: $1.0MM

The number above represents 2021 average sales per unit of franchised and company-owned stores.

Source: 2022 QSR 50 Report

Chipotle

Chipotle is a chain of Mexican restaurants that has become popular due to their specialty menu with a focus on natural ingredients.

The first Chipotle was opened in Denver, CO in 1993. Fans of this Mexican grill love their burritos, bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads.

Chipotle AUV: $2.6MM

The number above represents 2021 average sales per unit of franchised and company-owned stores.

Source: 2022 QSR 50 Report

Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box offers a large and distinctive 24/7 menu with five dayparts to our customers. This means you can get anything on the menu at any time – day or night.

Although Jack in the Box might be known as a burger franchise to most, their tacos have grown a cult-following of their own.

Jack in the Box AUV: $1.9MM

This number comes from Item 19 of their latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). To receive a copy of our most recent FDD, please contact their sales and support team.

Check Out These Additional Resources

We hope this article gave you a better understanding of which taco franchise makes the most money.

At Del Taco, we serve freshly prepared, craveable food at an unbeatable value and are looking for franchisees who want to grow with our brand.

Here are some additional online resources you may like to check out:

• 5 Reasons to Buy a Taco Franchise
• What Are the Financial Requirements for Del Taco?
• 15 Best Taco Franchises to Own

If you have any questions, please contact our franchise sales and support team.