Courtesy of Fuzzy's Taco Shop
The Queso Shrimpico Taco at Fuzzy's Taco Shop
Fuzzy's Taco Shop, founded on West Berry Street, is headed to the American West.
Fuzzy's on Wednesday announced that it had entered into a franchise agreement with John Cassity for four stores, which will include the brand’s expansion into Utah, and growth within Colorado, an existing market. The Irving-based restaurant group, recognized for its Baja-style fare, has nearly 150 franchise- and corporate-owned locations in 18 states, with planned openings in Alabama and Utah that will bring the total to 20 states.
In addition to Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Cassity owns five Einstein Bros. Bagel shops and four Subway sandwich shops.
“John is a highly qualified and experienced restaurant operator who we know will maintain the integrity of the brand and Fuzzy’s culture,” says Paul Damico, CEO of Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, in a statement.
Cassity adds: “When I was looking at concepts to complement my existing brand portfolio Fuzzy’s Taco Shop kept checking off all the boxes for me. What really impressed me was their flexible footprint which can be tailored to each specific space and market.”
“Additionally, Fuzzy’s offers a completely unique concept with affordable food and signature drinks, so from a competition standpoint it really stands on its own.”
In October 2021, Damico announced plans to double the size of the Fuzzy's Taco Shop brand in the next five years. In January, Fuzzy’s officials announced a big deal, a 50-store agreement with Richard Maddox that will include expansion into the South with new markets in Alabama, North Carolina, and Tennessee, and growth within existing markets in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Cassity’s first two Fuzzy’s Taco Shop locations are scheduled to open in the second half of 2022 in Grand Junction, Colorado, and St. George, Utah, with plans to expand within Utah after the openings.