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Local Salsarita’s Stores Announce Change in Franchisor Ownership

Local Salsarita’s Stores Announce Change in Franchisor Ownership

Knoxville, TN – Laxmi Ventures, Inc., owner of Salsarita’s of Knoxville stores, announced today that their franchisor, Salsarita’s Inc. of Charlotte, has been acquired by a group of investors that includes former McAlister’s Deli CEO, Phil Friedman. Terms of the deal were not released. Under his 11-year leadership, Friedman saw McAlister’s grow from 27 to 300 restaurants.

“We’re excited about the changes that are being made at the corporate level,” said HP Patel, President of Laxmi Ventures. “As a franchisee, I am looking forward to the additional support and the forward-thinking ideas that Mr. Friedman has. On top of strong operations, our customers can look forward to better service and a broader menu selection, along with a high emphasis on guest satisfaction. Salsarita’s has a strong presence in East Tennessee, and we are looking toward additional growth.”

Among franchisees, Salsarita’s of Greater Knoxville is the nation’s leading market in terms of brand presence and sales.

Mr. Friedman has said publicly that he is not interested in expanding into other markets but growing the depth of existing markets.

The quick-casual, 11-year-old burrito and taco chain has established a regional presence in the Southeast, operating 82 locations in 19 states and Puerto Rico.

For more information, please visit https://www.salsaritas.com.

About Salsarita’s of Knoxville

Founded in Charlotte, North Carolina, Salsarita’s fresh Mexican concept has quickly grown to 82 locations in 19 states. The company specializes in made to order burritos, tacos, enchiladas, taco salads and more. In the greater Knoxville area, Salsarita’s operates locations at Fountain City, Clinton Highway, West Hills, Turkey Creek, Oak Ridge, Alcoa and Pigeon Forge.