Hot Head Burritos, the spicy and customizable burrito chain born in Dayton, is turning up the heat on its expansion plans. While navigating the post-pandemic landscape, the company is setting its sights on strategic growth through a combination of traditional brick-and-mortar stores and innovative new formats like food trucks.
Emerging from Challenging Times
"The past few years have been tough on everyone in the restaurant industry," says Kelly Gray, vice president of Hot Head franchising. "The focus was on survival, but now we're turning the corner." With a renewed sense of optimism, Hot Head is capitalizing on a strong foundation and a passionate franchisee base eager to expand the brand's reach.
A Legacy of Flavor and Customization
Founded in 2007, Hot Head has become a regional favorite with over 80 locations across eight states. Their core concept is simple: fresh, high-quality ingredients and endless customization options. Customers can build their perfect meal – bowls, burritos, tacos, quesadillas, or nachos – by selecting their preferred protein, rice, beans, salsa, and a plethora of toppings and sauces.
Branching Out: Food Trucks and Beyond
While brick-and-mortar stores remain a priority, Hot Head is embracing new avenues for growth. In late 2023, they acquired a food truck, which has been making the rounds at corporate events and local breweries. This mobile ambassador not only serves delicious Hot Head fare but also allows the company to experiment with new markets and gather valuable customer data.
The food truck initiative extends beyond mere marketing. "We see it as a training ground for new franchisees," explains Gray. The flexibility and smaller scale of the food truck environment creates an ideal platform for new hires to learn the ropes before tackling a full-fledged restaurant operation.
Innovation on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Hot Head is exploring ways to enhance the customer experience while improving employee well-being. The company is piloting an ordering kiosk at their Smithville location, aiming to streamline the ordering process and potentially free up staff for more customer-centric interactions. Additionally, they are looking to invest in dishwashing automation, reducing the physical strain on employees.
The Future is Fresh
Hot Head Burritos is poised for exciting growth. Their commitment to fresh, flavorful food, customizable options, and a focus on both customer and employee satisfaction positions them for continued success. Whether you crave a fire-roasted burrito from a traditional store or a quick bite from their vibrant food truck, Hot Head promises an experience that's anything but bland.