Does Del Taco provide franchisees with the standards and specifications for foodstuffs, menu items, and beverages?
Del_Taco Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We do not provide franchises with our standards and specifications for foodstuffs, menu items, beverages, or other items that must be purchased solely from an approved or designated supplier. We will provide our current standards and specifications for such items to approved suppliers. We may modify such standards and specifications by providing written notification to the applicable suppliers.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 28–30)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Del Taco's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Del Taco does not provide franchisees with the standards and specifications for foodstuffs, menu items, and beverages that must be purchased from approved or designated suppliers. Instead, Del Taco provides these standards and specifications directly to the approved suppliers. Del Taco retains the right to modify these standards and specifications by notifying the suppliers in writing.
This means that as a Del Taco franchisee, you will not have direct access to the detailed specifications for the ingredients and menu items. Instead, you must rely on the approved suppliers to meet Del Taco's standards. This arrangement ensures consistency across all Del Taco locations, as all suppliers must adhere to the same specifications.
While franchisees do not receive the specifications directly, they are still responsible for ensuring that their restaurant operates according to Del Taco's standards. This includes purchasing all required items from approved vendors and maintaining the quality and consistency of the food and beverages served. Franchisees can request the criteria Del Taco uses in approving suppliers by submitting a written request. This system allows Del Taco to maintain tight control over product quality and consistency while streamlining the supply chain.