Restaurant Industry Veteran Utilizes Experience on Both Sides of Franchise Model
Restaurant franchise veteran Daniel Smith is the new president of Rusty Taco, a Dallas-based fast-casual restaurant concept. With more than two decades of experience in the restaurant industry, Smith leverages skills gained as a franchise owner and a member of franchise leadership teams to execute Rusty Taco’s growth strategies.
Smith said he’s excited about growing the brand and supporting franchisees. “I believe the taco segment has lots of room for growth. You can eat tacos multiple times a week, unlike pizza and burgers. You can scale up or down depending on your appetite. There are tastes and flavors for tacos that we have just begun to explore,” he said.
Rusty Taco was acquired from Inspire Brands by Gala Capital Partners, a California-based private investment firm, in 2022. Smith said he believes GCP’s backing is critical to Rusty Taco’s growth.
“Anand Gala, founder and managing partner of GCP, and his team have taken a great approach to the franchise business model. They have several brands including Dunn Brothers Coffee and MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes, and many of us office together in Dallas,” Smith said. “We are able to share friendships and expertise while brainstorming challenges. We are also utilizing a shared service team and it appears very efficient. I cannot think of a better application of private equity in franchising.”
Gala said Smith’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Rusty Taco. “This strategic move will guide Rusty Taco to becoming a leading fast-casual brand in the taco category, and we are confident that Daniel has the vision and experience needed to take it there. We can’t wait to see how Rusty Taco develops in the year ahead and beyond,” Gala said.
Growing Teams
Smith got his start in the industry with Claim Jumper Restaurants, serving in various positions over 26 years and culminating in his role as vice president of operations. Smith also has held key positions at notable brands including Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza and Bonefish Grill, and he owned multiple Pieology franchises.
Smith said his attraction to the restaurant industry stems from his fondness for building teams. “People drive processes and processes drive results. Rusty is in a life cycle that can use what I bring to the table.”
About Rusty Taco
Rusty Taco was founded by Rusty and Denise Fenton in 2010. The brand’s menu consists of queso, margaritas, breakfast tacos and street-style tacos made by hand. Since its founding, Rusty Taco has grown to more than 30 locations across 13 states.
