Taco Bell opens 100th outlet in Spain; targets India, UK and Australia as top locations

QSR chain Taco Bell is kicking off 2022 by surpassing international milestones abroad as it opens 100th restaurant in Spain.

The taco-chain opened its first restaurant outside the states in 1973, and in just the last two years, the brand has grown its store count by more than 25%.

With growth plans as strong as ever, Taco Bell and its international franchisees have plans to operate more than 1,000 restaurants internationally.

"Our international franchise partners and team members in Taco Bell restaurants around the world fuel the fire of our brand and are a huge testament to what we are building together," said Julie Felss Masino, President, Taco Bell International by adding that with the partnership of people like Spain master franchisee, Ignacio Mora-Figueroa, their international expansion to 1,000 restaurants outside the U.S. allows them a bigger footprint to create more fans around the world.

As one of Taco Bell’s fastest growing markets outside the U.S., Spain has now opened the doors to its 100th restaurant.

Upon completion of this year’s Spain restaurant openings alone, the brand expects to contribute over 2,000 jobs to the local economy, and even more indirect jobs through expanded supply chain and vendor needs.

Later this year, restaurant doors will continue to open in major cities across India, Australia and the UK. These three additional international markets are accelerating quickly, reaching growth milestones of their own.

The brand’s leading digital innovation has only accelerated international expansion milestones like these.

Taco Bell’s digital sales are the highest of all Yum! Brands international businesses, surpassing 50% growth year over year. Taco Bell UK now drives 60% of its business through digital -- the highest of any international market.