Operations
&pizza acquires Tijuana Flats, creates holding company
November 6, 2025
Washington DC-based &pizza has acquired Tijuana Flats and formed a the holding company, Latitude Food Group, to oversee both brands.
The acquisition includes all 95 of Tijuana Flats' corporate and franchised locations across the southeastern U.S. and its headquarters in Maitland, Florida.
Led by &pizza CEO Mike Burns, Latitude Food Group will manage and guide fast casuals and QSRs that share a "bold, unconventional spirit," focusing on vibrant brand identities and community engagement to drive growth. The strategy includes expanding both brands through multi-unit franchising.
"&pizza and Tijuana Flats are a natural fit," Burns said in a company press release. "Step into either location and you'll immediately feel the energy. These aren't your average concepts."
Burns said both brands are focused on technology, bold design and shared commitment to community.
"We're excited to harness the unique strengths of both brands and apply proven strategies and efficiencies to build a strong foundation for future growth," he said.
The acquisition comes as &pizza, founded in 2012, recently launched its franchising strategy. The company has announced franchise agreements to expand beyond its current mid-Atlantic presence into Orlando, Atlanta, Charleston and Raleigh.
&pizza, which has locations across the East Coast in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, is known for its mission-driven approach, which includes a commitment to paying workers a livable wage.
