Tortilla (restaurant chain)

Tortilla Mexican Grill PLC, operating under the brand name Tortilla, is a fast-food franchise based in the United Kingdom. Established in 2007 by entrepreneurs Brandon and Jennifer Stephens, the company had expanded by October 2022 to 84 locations throughout the UK. Additionally, Tortilla maintains an international footprint with 10 outlets in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, achieved through a franchise collaboration with Eathos.

History

Tortilla's inaugural restaurant launched in Islington in 2007, swiftly rising to become the largest fast-food Mexican brand within the UK market. The business model encompasses various service options including dine-in, self-service, takeaway, click-and-collect, and delivery. Its expansion approach focuses on growth in prominent UK urban centers and overseas markets, supported by cloud kitchen operations and an exclusive delivery arrangement with Deliveroo.

In 2019, Tortilla made its entry into key UK travel locations such as Euston railway station through a development deal with SSP Group. By October 2021, the brand had added new outlets at Gatwick Airport and Leeds Skelton Lake Services. May 2021 marked Tortilla’s venture into entertainment venues by inaugurating a site at Chessington World of Adventures Resort in partnership with Merlin Entertainments.

The company has been honored with several industry accolades for marketing and operational achievements. These include the QSR Media UK Centegra Award for Best Marketing Campaign (2020), inclusion in Restaurant Marketer & Innovator’s 30 Under 30 (2020), R200 Best Value Restaurant Chain Over 20 Sites (2018), and FEJ Awards Operator of the Year for Best New Kitchen Concept (2018).

In May 2022, Tortilla strengthened its position within the UK fast-casual Mexican dining sector by acquiring Chilango Ltd from RDCP Group Ltd for £2.8 million.

Values

Tortilla prioritizes quality ingredients, utilizing only grass-fed brisket sourced from the British Isles for its slow-cooked Barbacoa as well as Red Tractor certified pork. The company is a committed signatory of the Better Chicken Commitment, underscoring its dedication to ethical sourcing practices. All vegetarian and vegan menu offerings hold accreditation from the Vegan & Vegetarian Society, reflecting responsiveness to increasing demand for plant-based meals.

Demonstrating corporate social responsibility and community involvement, Tortilla participated in the UK Government’s Kickstart Scheme in January 2021 by providing 50 job placements aimed at supporting youth employment.