Brett Itterman of Taco John's Honored as Franchisee of the Year by IFA

Taco John's Franchisee of the Year

Taco John's®, a prominent Mexican quick-service restaurant chain, proudly announces the recognition of Brett Itterman as the Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA) during its Annual Convention held in Las Vegas, Nevada. This accolade highlights Itterman's commitment to excellence in business operations and his significant contributions to the community as well as the franchise network.

Brett Itterman has enjoyed a rich history with Taco John's, starting from his family's involvement in 1980 when his father became a franchisee. Under his leadership as CEO of Pentex Restaurant Group since 2015, Itterman has spearheaded the expansion efforts of Taco John's, overseeing a total of 47 locations across eight states. He has also been instrumental in innovating operational processes and enhancing the customer experience, thereby fostering an environment where both franchisees and team members can thrive.

The Franchisee of the Year award honors individuals for their exceptional contributions, such as community outreach, workforce development, and support for fellow franchisees. In reflecting on this recognition, Itterman stated, “Being named IFA Franchisee of the Year is a tremendous honor, and it reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We’ve received unwavering support from the brand, and together, we’ve built a system where both franchisees and team members can thrive.”

Under Itterman's stewardship, Pentex has focused on strategic growth and operational efficiencies, contributing to its recognition on the Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 list, where Taco John's ranks 147th in 2025. The company has also begun exploring non-traditional growth avenues nationwide while concentrating on expansion in the Upper Midwest and Rocky Mountain regions.

As part of his dedication to the franchise system, Itterman serves as the President of the Association of Taco John's Franchisees. His role involves advocating for franchisee interests while driving initiatives that benefit the overall system. Heather Neary, the President and CEO of Taco John's, praised Itterman for his unwavering commitment, stating, “This prestigious honor is a testament to Brett's hard work, and we’re incredibly grateful to have him representing our brand with such dedication.”

Taco John's is poised for continued growth, exemplified by its introduction of an optimized business model aimed at streamlining operations, refreshing its branding, and integrating advanced technologies. The company offers comprehensive support to franchisees, assisting with development, training, operations, marketing, and technology. This support system has enabled Taco John's to deliver a competitive edge in the restaurant industry, ensuring that their beloved menu and signature items, such as Potato Olés®, remain accessible to a wider audience.

Taco John's, founded in Cheyenne, Wyoming, in 1969, has served customers for over 55 years. The brand is famous for coining 'Taco Tuesday' in 1989, positioning itself as a leader in providing bold and flavorful Mexican cuisine. The establishment currently boasts nearly 350 locations across 22 states, and the ongoing commitment from franchisees like Brett Itterman is paving the way for future success and community outreach.

For more information about Taco John's franchise opportunities, visit Taco John's Franchise or contact Shannon Iverson via email.