Franchising

Qdoba inks Cleveland deal

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April 6, 2022

Qdoba Mexican Eats has signed a multi-unit agreement to bring 10 locations to the Cleveland area, including Geauga, Lake, Portage, Stark, Summit and Cuyahoga counties.

OM Ohio Queso Inc. — led by Amit Patel, Kalpesh Patel and Amanda Ristic — is spearheading the multi-unit deal and has two decades of operations experience ranging from Dunkin' and Wingstop to Cousins Subs.

"There is no denying that the Mexican restaurant sector is hot right now, and I don't think that heat will ever die down," Amit Patel said in a company press release. "Choosing Qdoba was a simple process for us. We knew that to join a growing segment we needed to partner with a brand equipped with extensive corporate support, flexible restaurant formats and extensive national brand recognition — Qdoba checked all of those boxes."

Qdoba, which has nearly 750 units, has its sights set on expanding to 2,000 units through a mix of existing franchisees adding more units, signing new franchise agreements and continuing corporate development. Following 60 franchise commitments in 2021, the chain is seeking qualified multi-unit and multi-segment groups with experience in development strategy and focused on diversifying with a bold concept, said Qdoba CEO Jim Sullivan.

"Qdoba truly is a good fit anywhere — with our ability to fit into any space an operator can think of — we are able to continue expanding into new markets and bring our world-class flavors to more individuals across the country," he said in the release. "As we carry on expanding with current franchisees and connect with new operators, they recognize the potential that operating with Qdoba can bring to their franchise portfolio. Talented operators, like Amit, Kalpesh and Amanda, understand the value of the added flexibility and support we can offer."