Can the Operating Principal also be the Restaurant Manager for a Del Taco franchise?

According to Del Taco's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Operating Principal and the Restaurant Manager can be the same person, provided they meet specific qualifications and receive approval from Del Taco.

Specifically, the individual must be qualified to perform both roles and duties. This means the person needs to fulfill the requirements for both positions, including having the necessary management experience and completing Del Taco's required training programs.

Del Taco's approval is also mandatory. The franchisor needs to assess and agree that the individual is capable of handling the responsibilities of both the Operating Principal and the Restaurant Manager. This ensures that the restaurant's operations are effectively managed and that brand standards are maintained.

This dual role can be beneficial for franchisees looking to streamline operations and reduce staffing costs, but it also places a significant responsibility on the individual, who must be capable of managing both the high-level strategic aspects of the business and the day-to-day operational details.