Del Taco Opens 400th Store

Del Taco, the nation's second largest Mexican quick-service chain, today announced the opening of its 400th Restaurant which is also the first of 14 restaurants planned for Fresno.

In its first 24 hours, the restaurant served nearly 2,000 customers with gross sales of $8,000 and gave away more than 1,000 free tacos in a grand-opening promotion.

"Fresno is a new and exciting market opportunity for Del Taco and we really see how hungry consumers there are for Del Taco. We're pleased to open our 400th unit in Fresno and become a part of the community," said Ron Petty, president of Del Taco Inc.

"With 400 units open now, we are gaining the critical mass that gives Del Taco stronger brand recognition in every market we operate and gives our customers more opportunities to have their favorite foods wherever they travel."

This 400th restaurant marks a significant milestone in the company's growth effort over the past four years that has included more than 40 development agreements to expand the chain by more than 250 restaurants.

The Fresno restaurant, located at 3867 West Shaw, is owned by franchisee Frank Tumminello, who also opened the Bakersfield market for Del Taco. Fresno is a key market for Del Taco because it links Southern California and Northern California markets.

Del Taco is a privately held company that operates, or franchises, 400 Mexican quick-service restaurants throughout the United States. Del Taco is the second largest Mexican restaurant chain in the United States with individual restaurant sales volumes that exceed all other Mexican quick-service competitors.

Del Taco features fresh ingredients, made-to-order food, unique Mexican entrees and an American menu that includes double cheeseburgers, shakes and crinkle-cut fries. Del Taco restaurants are designed with a festive interior and drive-thru.