1851

LAST UPDATED: 2/2024FRANCHISE WEBSITE:&nbsp;<a href="https://deltacofranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://deltacofranchise.com/</a>&nbsp;NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 590+REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $812,700 to $2,467,500REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $1,618,863 (AUV, 2022)<a href="https://deltacofranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Del Taco</a> is a fast-food restaurant franchise specializing in Mexican-inspired cuisine.<h3>How Many Del Taco Locations Are There?</h3>Del Taco was founded in 1964 and has since grown to become the second-largest brand in the fast-growing Mexican quick-service restaurant category. Del Taco is known for serving freshly prepared, Mexican-inspired food at competitive prices, a combination that has contributed to its loyal fan base and strong presence across the United States.With over 590 locations in 15 states, Del Taco offers a variety of menu items including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, and more. The restaurant is actively expanding across the U.S. and is seeking passionate multi-unit restaurant operators to join its franchise system.<h3>What Is The Del Taco Business Model?</h3>Del Taco's fast-food business model prioritizes flexibility, convenience and scalability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics while maintaining a focus on quality and freshness in its offerings.Here are some key aspects of Del Taco's business model:<ul><li>Fresh Flex Store Design: Del Taco has introduced a new store design prototype that focuses on striking exteriors and distinctive interiors to evoke a contemporary feel. It aims to lower net investment costs and improve real estate flexibility.</li><li>Ultimate Convenience Platform:&nbsp;The business model emphasizes an ultimate convenience platform, which includes efficient kitchen designs to optimize labor and improve guest experience. It also features dedicated mobile app and delivery drive-thru lanes, contactless third-party delivery pickup stations, and inviting on &amp; off-premise dining options.</li><li>Flexible Construction Plan:&nbsp;Del Taco's flexible construction plan allows for the construction of locations in a wide variety of traditional and non-traditional venues, catering to diverse customer needs and preferences.</li><li>Preferred Site Criteria:&nbsp;Del Taco has specific criteria for selecting new restaurant locations, including land size, building size, population, employment, household income, and traffic counts. These criteria ensure that new locations are strategically positioned for success.</li></ul>Del Taco has a diverse range of preferences concerning land, demographic, and site characteristics when evaluating potential locations for new restaurants. They emphasize the following specifications:<ul><li>Land Size: Minimum of 25,000 Square Feet</li><li>Building Size:&nbsp;Minimum of 1,200 Square Feet</li><li>Population:&nbsp;Minimum of 10,000 within a one-mile radius</li><li>Employment:&nbsp;Minimum of 3,000 within a one-mile radius</li><li>Household Income:&nbsp;Average of $65,000</li><li>Traffic Counts: Minimum of 25,000 Daily</li></ul>Del Taco's adaptable construction plan allows for the establishment of locations in various traditional and non-traditional venues, including free-standing buildings, endcaps, co-development projects, convenience stores (c-stores), travel plazas, airports, stadiums, college campuses, military bases and more.<h3>How Much Can Del Taco Owners Make?</h3>The Del Taco AUV for freestanding franchised restaurants in 2022 is $1,618,863.<h3>How Much Does It Cost to Open a Del Taco Franchise?</h3>Opening a Del Taco franchise requires an estimated initial investment ranging from $812,700 to $2,467,500, with a minimum liquidity of $500,000 and a minimum net worth of $1,000,000. Each franchise location requires a $35,000 franchise fee, and ongoing royalties consist of 5% of net sales and 4% for advertising.&nbsp;There is a reduced royalty payment structured as follows: 1% in year 1, 2% in year 2, 3% in year 3, 4% in year 4, and 5% thereafter.<h3>What Is the Franchise Fee for Del Taco?</h3>The franchise fee is $35,000.&nbsp;<h3>Who Are the Leaders of Del Taco?</h3><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-linderman-3ab4884/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tim Linderman - Chief Development Officer</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/van-ingram-169b58a/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Van Ingram - Vice President of Franchise Development</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnisilver/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Ronni Silver - Director of Franchise Development</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wahrer-919ab841/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Mike Wahrer - Vice President of Design &amp; Construction</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinthompson/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dustin Thompson - Director of Franchise Marketing &amp; Development</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-thompson-6a682a8/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Kim Thompson - Director of Franchise Development</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpearson7/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">John Pearson - Content Marketing Manager</a></li></ul><h3>What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More?</h3><ul><li><a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/del-taco/282277?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Start a Del Taco Franchise in 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://www.restaurantdive.com/news/del-taco-franchising-surge/707076/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">What's behind Del Taco's franchising surge</a></li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/del-taco_how-much-does-a-del-taco-franchise-make-activity-7090390911381114880-ayoC?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">How Much Does a Del Taco Franchise Make?</a></li><li><a href="https://sharpsheets.io/blog/del-taco-franchise-costs-profits/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Del Taco Franchise Costs $1.5M (+ 2023 AUV &amp; Profits)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.franchisegator.com/franchises/del-taco/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Start a Del Taco Franchise, 2024 Costs &amp; Fees</a></li></ul>Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.&nbsp;Check out these three 1851 brands:<a href="https://1851franchise.com/southernclassicchicken">Southern Classic Chicken</a><ul><li><a href="https://southernclassicchickenfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&amp%3Butm_medium=article&amp%3Butm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-on-the-borders-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721719&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Franchise Development Page</a></li><li>Number of Open Locations (as of 2/29/2024): 17&nbsp;</li><li>Investment Range: $777,500 - $1,235,500</li></ul><a href="https://1851franchise.com/pollocampero">Pollo Campero*</a><ul><li><a href="https://camperofranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&amp%3Butm_medium=article&amp%3Butm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-on-the-borders-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721719&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Franchise Development Page</a></li><li>Number of Open Locations (as of 2/29/2024): 370+</li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp; $1,287,250 - $2,491,500</li></ul><a href="https://1851franchise.com/atomicwings/info">Atomic Wings</a><ul><li><a href="https://atomicwingsfranchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&amp%3Butm_medium=article&amp%3Butm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-on-the-borders-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721719&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Franchise Development Page</a></li><li>Number of Open Locations (as of 2/29/2024):&nbsp;23</li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;&nbsp;$197,900 - $381,000</li></ul>Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725445" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained on this site constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the email constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.

Franchise Deep Dive: Del Taco Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

Del Taco: Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit & Locations

1851 Franchise

This popular fast-food franchise, which has built a loyal following of customers who love its Mexican-inspired menu, is looking for multi-unit franchisees to help with its expansion.

franchise-deep-dive-del-taco-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

The Junkluggers

image of junk luggers franchise  2026 Franchisee Conference

The Junkluggers Franchisees and Leadership Gathered to Build Momentum for 2026

junkluggers-franchise-conference-2026-recap

Lawn Squad

Why Invest in a Lawn Squad Franchise vs. Competitors?

why-invest-in-a-lawn-squad-franchise-vs-competitors

One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning

Women in Leadership Driving Success at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning

Women in Leadership and Strong Team Culture Are Driving Success at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning

one-hour-heating-air-conditioning-franchise-owner-women-trades

Central Creativity

How Central Creativity Is Closing the Resource Gap in STEAM Education

central-creativity-equitable-learning-solutions

Pool Scouts

How a Pool Scouts Owner Built Control and Long-Term Growth

Create Wealth Through Franchising Podcast: How a Pool Scouts Owner Built Control and Long-Term Growth

pool-scouts-franchise-owner-story

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Development Website Builder

Franchise Resources

The Top 10 Low-Cost Franchises With High ROI 

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

1851 Login

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

Jersey Mike's Takes First Steps Towards Initial Public Offering

jersey-mikes-makes-first-steps-towards-ipo

Prince St. Pizza Partners With Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchisee for National Growth

prince-st-pizza-partners-with-daves-hot-chicken-franchisee-for-national-growth

FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards - 1851 Franchise

FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards

franchise-disclosure-violations-xponential-fitness-lawsuit-ftc

Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units - 1851 Franchise

Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units

applebees-franchisee-bankruptcy-neighborhood-restaurant-partners

Why Skilled Trades Are Emerging as the Economy’s Most AI-Resilient Careers

ai-skilled-trades-authority-brands

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A fast-casual restaurant brand serving made-from-scratch sandwiches, salads, soups and pizzas rooted in Southern hospitality.


Newk’s Eatery Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

newks-eatery-franchise-costs-fees-profit

Big O Tires Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Big O Tires is a full-service auto care franchise offering tires, brake repair, alignments, oil changes and preventive maintenance under a nationally recognized brand.

franchise-deep-dive-big-o-tires-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Visiting Angels Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Visiting Angels is a senior home care franchise focused on in-home support for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

visiting-angels-franchise-costs-fees-profit

Amada Senior Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Amada Senior Care is a non-medical home care, assisted living placement, and related senior-support services with multiple revenue streams.

amada-senior-care-franchise-costs-fees-profit

How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How much can franchisees make? This guide explains what drives franchise earnings and how to manage costs, with expert tips from multi-unit owner Mangesh Patel on maximizing your franchise income.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

how-much-can-franchisees-make-a-guide-expert-tips

JEI Learning Center Franchise Deep Dive 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: The low-cost supplemental education franchise leverages diagnostic testing and a unique Self-Learning Method to support students’ growth.

Franchise Deep Dive: Del Taco Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS