Pollo Tropical Continues Florida Expansion Despite Struggles
Owners of Pollo Tropical are refocusing growth efforts in Florida.
As the company reshuffles management and admits to a tough restaurant environment, Fiesta Restaurant Group, which owns Pollo Tropical, plans to open up to 17 new locations, mostly in Florida.
The other market targeted for expansion for the Caribbean-themed fast-casual eatery is Atlanta, according to company officials. Specific Florida markets have yet to be revealed.
The expansion news comes at a time when Tim Taft has just stepped down as CEO of the company, which also owns Taco Cabana. In his place, Danny Meisenheimer (above) is interim CEO.
It also is apparently scrapping plans to spin off its Taco Cabana brand, as well as halt expansion of Pollo Tropical in Texas.
"Considering the persistent challenging market conditions impacting the restaurant industry as a whole," Fiesta chairman Jack Smith stated in documents, "we have decided it is in the best interests of all shareholders to maintain ownership of the Taco Cabana brand."
