What pre-opening support expenses must a Del Taco franchisee reimburse to Del Taco?
Del_Taco Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Before the opening of your Restaurant, we will provide technical support at your Restaurant through the first day of opening of your Restaurant.
The date and time of the pre-opening support will be determined by us in our sole discretion.
You must reimburse us for our travel, meals, lodging and expenses.
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 21–28)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Del Taco's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must reimburse Del Taco for certain expenses related to pre-opening technical support. Specifically, the franchisee is responsible for reimbursing Del Taco for travel, meals, lodging, and other expenses incurred by Del Taco personnel while providing technical support at the restaurant before its opening. The timing of this support is determined at Del Taco's discretion.
In addition to reimbursing Del Taco for technical support expenses, franchisees are also responsible for covering various other pre-opening costs. These include expenses related to training, such as salaries, wages, supplies, transportation, lodging, and food for both the franchisee and their employees during training. Franchisees must also cover the costs associated with required food safety certifications, such as ServSafe certification and food handler certifications.
The estimated initial investment table outlines the range of expenses a franchisee can expect. Under the 'Technical Support Expenses' line item, the estimated cost is between $1,700 and $3,500, which is paid to Del Taco on invoice. The franchisee is also responsible for expenses related to IT equipment and installation, security cameras, initial training, crew training, additional funds for the first three months, inventory, and licenses, fees, and deposits. These expenses are paid to third parties and vendors.