TacoTime Franchisees Are Valued Community Partners

Mexican food franchise owners give back to their communities by providing jobs, as well as donating time and money to local charities, schools and more

As small-business owners, TacoTime® franchisees fill a vital role in their communities, providing a favorite go-to destination for delicious Mexican food made with fresh, real ingredients. They are also known for providing jobs in the local workforce, as well as supporting area charities, schools and other organizations.

Multi-unit operators Denise and Lee Staley have provided a great place to eat and work in Wyoming for more than 40 years, and they take pride in being an active community sponsor. Through the years they have sponsored sports teams, charity walks and many other fundraisers. They also pride themselves on being a great family-friendly place to work, offering tuition reimbursement, flexible scheduling and advancement opportunities to their employees.

“The secret to our success is being a true community partner in all locations. In addition, we treat all our employees like family,” Denise says. Many of the Staleys’ locations have employed multiple generations of the same families.

Franchise owners mentor future community leaders

For many TacoTime owners there is pride in helping their team members learn valuable skills they’ll use for a lifetime. Those behind the counter aren’t just preparing great-tasting, affordable Mexican food, they also are learning key responsibilities for operating a small business, such as inventory control, customer service and scheduling.

That, in turn, spurs employees to become skilled in all facets of the TacoTime franchise operation. From there, many go into management at TacoTime or pursue management opportunities in other locations as they continue their education or enter the workforce full-time. “A TacoTime Mexican food franchise is not only providing great meals to customers, it’s also a learning environment for the next generation of business leaders,” Kevin Gingrich, President of TacoTime says.

Multi-unit owner Bruce Finch prides himself on being very hands-on in the Idaho TacoTime restaurants he runs with his wife, Joy. Their company, Happy Day Restaurants, launched in 1969 with the opening of their first TacoTime. The longtime restaurateur was inducted into the Idaho Hall of Fame in 2016 and is known for working side-by side with his employees as well serving as a good business role model by giving back through programs such as free lunch once a month for veterans.

“TacoTime franchise owners really enjoy engaging with their employees not just as bosses, but as mentors,” Gingrich says.

TacoTime is ready for the spotlight. With more than 350 locations in the United States and Canada, the Mexican food franchise is ready to break out of its home turf in the Pacific Northwest and hit the national stage. TacoTime is looking for entrepreneurs who are passionate about bringing authentic and affordable Mexican food to their communities. TacoTime is led by a veteran franchise team and dedicated brand support team as part of the Kahala Brands™ family.