Franchising

Qdoba growing non-traditional units

November 5, 2020

Qdoba Mexican Eats is growing its non-traditional footprint via universities, airports and other venues. Since August, the brand has opened eight locations on college campuses across the country, including the University of Cincinnati, the University of Nebraska — Lincoln, Purdue University, the University of Pittsburgh — Bradford, ASU Polytechnic, North Carolina A&T University, Kentucky State University and Northern Illinois University. An additional two non-traditional locations will open by the end of the year, according to a company press release.

"Our success in growing the non-traditional segment of the business comes from our belief that we bring flavor to people's lives no matter where their lives take them," Mary Richardson, director of License Operations and Business Development, said in the release. "We are a nimble brand that works with partners on space restrictions and menu offerings to meet their needs and the needs of the customers they serve. College campuses and military bases especially are looking for fresh and healthy options, and QDOBA's menu is a perfect fit. As we continue to strengthen our existing partnerships and develop new ones, we're eager to expand our non-traditional footprint and bring more flavor to people's lives."

Several design and floor plan options make QDOBA an attractive development opportunity within airports, university campuses, hospitals and other venues. Additionally, the brand benefits from four strong dayparts; attractive unit economics; national brand awareness; a chef-driven menu featuring healthy options; and nationwide distribution channels, Richardson said.

"Foodservice companies and operators love our concept because we are able to fulfill our promise of great food and fast service in a variety of venues across the country," said Peter Ortiz, QDOBA's VP of Franchise Development. "Growing our non-traditional footprint is an important part of our franchise strategy and I'm excited to continue to develop close ties with high-caliber, multi-brand operators."

Qdoba has over 730 locations of which 100 are non-traditional units.