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Inaugural NSW Taco Bell to pioneer $65m expansion

Nick Hall

The first NSW Taco Bell restaurant has finally been unveiled, with the inaugural outlet set to open its doors on Tuesday.

After months of anticipation, Taco Bell fans across the state can finally get a taste of the iconic Mexican-inspired fast-food chain, which boasts over 7000 outlets worldwide. However, it may be a drive.

Located in the sub-regional area of Jesmond, the first NSW Taco Bell marks a significant expansion step in the venture between Taco Bell and operator Restaurant Brands. The franchise group, most famous for its work with fellow YUM! Brands’ staple KFC, signed on to pioneer the NSW expansion earlier this year.

According to reports, the outlet will also serve as the base model from which all operation across the state will be launched.

Clark Wilson, general manager of Taco Bell at Restaurant Brands said that the company was looking forward to leveraging the brand’s strong market presence to kick-start state-wide expansion.

“Taco Bell is a culture-centric brand; around the world it has attracted social media memes and casts of international celebrity mentions. It’s a brand that brings people together and encourages the social experience of food, and we are pleased to bring this experience to the Jesmond community,” Wilson said.

NSW Taco Bell expansion

While Jesmond gets the NSW Taco Bell expansion officially underway, it won’t be long before the iconic purple bell becomes a permanent fixture across the state.

Russel Creedy, Restaurant Brands Group CEO revealed that the company has committed an estimated $65m for Taco Bell expansion across Australia and New Zealand over the next five years.

The growth includes a minimum of 40 restaurants across NSW and the ACT, generating over 2000 jobs in the process.

“We are delighted to be starting our journey in Jesmond and look forward to launching in Blacktown shortly after,” Creedy said.

The latest NSW expansion comes after Asia Pacific managing director Ankush Tuli revealed the chain is aiming for 100 outlets across Australia and New Zealand in just five years. Speaking with Inside Franchise Business earlier this year, Tuli revealed that Australia was a key market for the iconic fast-food chain.

“We have stated before that Australia is a key focus area for us, and I really believe that the region will be one of the largest and fastest-growing markets for Taco Bell internationally,” Tuli said.

“The numbers are out there, our target is to reach 100 restaurants in Australia and New Zealand over the next five years, and we have the momentum to do it.”

Taco Bell Jesmond Central officially opens on December 3, with a launch day mark the occasion.