FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I get started?
APPLICATION AND CONTACT
The first stage is filling out our Pre-Application Form.
Once Taco Time Canada has received this information a representative from our Franchise Department will telephone you to discuss your interest and qualifications.
PERSONAL INTERVIEW
If the initial contact indicates strong potential for you to become a franchise owner, a company representative will interview you in person, without obligation. The interview may be conducted either in your area or at Taco Time Canada's headquarters. You should understand that while this is an exciting process, it's your hard work, dedication, and continued personal involvement that will be key ingredients in your success.
REACHING A DECISION
After you have carefully read the documents and materials we provide for you, calculated your financial status, and met with our company representative, you should seek additional opinions from your lawyer, accountant, and other business advisors. These business professionals will advise you in the points of law, finances, taxes, and lease implications. Aided by this input, you will be in a position to proceed with your application.
INITIAL FEE
Following receipt of tentative approval from Taco Time Canada, the franchise may then be offered to you. To proceed further with your application, you must submit a deposit of $5,000.00, which will be applied against the franchise fee of $25,000.00 or refunded, depending on how the application proceeds.
MARKET EVALUATION AND SITE SELECTION
Our representatives will begin evaluating your proposed market area. We generally engage real estate brokers to assist in site selection. The franchisee is not responsible for real estate commissions.
FINANCING
Securing favorable financing for your TacoTime restaurant is the next step in the opening process. Taco Time Canada does not offer any direct financing. However, we do have established financing programs though financial institutions that will assist you in meeting your requirements.
FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Prior to opening your TacoTime restaurant, you will be asked to visit our offices to review your financial plan and leasing arrangements, discuss your training, review the construction process and sign your Franchise Agreement. The Franchise Agreement will require that you execute a personal guarantee.
REQUIRED TRAINING
Training is a practical program designed to get you comfortable with our menu items and their preparation. We will also address management and business issues that will help you control your operation. The franchise owner and/or manager MUST complete and pass this training program prior to opening. New storeowners are not charged for this training but are responsible for transportation to and from Calgary, lodging and living expenses.
PREPARING TO OPEN
After all preliminary steps have been completed, you are ready to start the final countdown toward opening. The entire process can take six months to a couple of years, depending on the market of interest.
As a Taco Time franchisee, how much money can I expect to make?
Profitability in TacoTime can depend on many different factors, such as operating costs, rent, what sort of financing terms you may have in place, and most importantly an Owner/Operators ability to run his/her business. With that in mind, it is near impossible to pre-determine what sort of money a franchisee can make.
How much is it going to cost me to open my own Taco Time?
Store Cost Schedule
How long is the term on the Franchise Agreement?
The initial Franchise Agreement is for a term of 10 years, with no-cost renewals running every 5 years after that.
I am interested in buying an existing TacoTime. Who should I contact about that?
Our development team is aware of locations that are currently for sale. Please email us and let us know which area you are interested in.
Email TacoTime Development Team
Is TacoTime looking at expanding to new areas?
We are always willing to look at developing in a new area. Please email us and let us know which area you think needs a TacoTime.
Email TacoTime Development Team
Is it possible for me to own more than one TacoTime®?
Of course! Many TacoTime franchisees are multi-unit owner/operators.
Does TacoTime franchise to partnerships or investors?
Personally we feel that the best run stores are those that are owner operated. However, if a partnership/investor came forward and had what we felt was a good manager, we would certainly consider awarding a franchise to them.
Do I need any previous restaurant experience?
No previous restaurant experience is required. TacoTime looks for individuals with an understanding of general business principles, along with a strong financial rating and the ability to invest in and support a TacoTime. Our training program is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills required to become a successful TacoTime owner/operator.
How do I qualify for a TacoTime franchise?
To qualify for a TacoTime, an individual must have a strong desire to own and operate his or her own successful business, specifically a franchised quick service restaurant. TacoTime looks for high potential owner/operators who are fully committed to the business and to making it a success, as well as an ability to relate well to employees, customers and the community. The need for hard work in the operation of a profitable TacoTime cannot be overemphasized.
Is financing available from TacoTime?
TacoTime does not provide any form of financing for our franchised outlets. However, we will provide the necessary information and advice to assist applicants in making appropriate representations to financial institutions.
Who sets the TacoTime operational procedures and policies?
The TacoTime Canada Operations Manual, supplied to every franchisee, clearly defines the standard policies and procedures to be followed by every TacoTime franchisee and employee. A Regional General Manager from the TacoTime Canada head office will visit your restaurant several times a year to provide any assistance you may require while ensuring that the TacoTime standards are being maintained.
What ongoing fees are required?
After the Initial Franchise Fee of $25,000, there are on-going fees to be paid to TacoTime that correspond to the unit’s net sales. These fees include a Royalty 5% and a National Advertising Fee of 4%.
Where would my TacoTime be located?
At any given time, there are usually a number of new TacoTime opportunities available to be matched with high potential franchisees. Please indicate which locations you would prefer on your application. Where possible, we will make every effort to accommodate your preference. There is a good chance, however, that a quality opportunity will exist elsewhere and you would be given a choice. Your willingness to relocate will influence how quickly you can expect to establish a successful TacoTime franchise.
What form of training and guidance does TacoTime provide?
Before a restaurant opens, we provide 2 weeks of intensive in-store training for the franchisee and key management people. The training takes place at an established TacoTime in Calgary, Alberta. As opening day draws closer, we bring additional support right to your doorstep -- assisting you with staff training, and making sure every aspect of your TacoTime opening goes as smoothly as possible.
Where do I buy supplies?
To maintain consistency throughout all of our restaurants, franchisees are required to purchase items from authorized suppliers who have been engaged by TacoTime Canada to supply our entire system.
What about advertising?
A coordinated advertising effort is an essential part of the success that TacoTime has enjoyed over the years. Each franchisee is required to contribute 4% of net sales to a National Advertising Fund. This fund is mostly used to pay for our national radio ad program. TacoTime marketing personnel are available to help eager franchisees grow their businesses by helping to get the most for your local store marketing dollars.
Is there a risk?
Yes, there is risk involved in any business venture. However, the combination of a strategically driven, well managed franchise system, appropriate location, quality products, and good on-site management act to greatly minimize this risk. You are encouraged to enlist the services of a professional accountant and lawyer to aid in assessing any specific franchise opportunity.