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Barberitos Expands Its Fast-Casual Burrito Franchise in Florida

Barberitos, a popular fast-casual burrito chain known for its commitment to fresh and health-conscious dining, is making a significant leap in Florida. The company has signed a development agreement to open seven new locations in the highly competitive Tampa/St. Pete market. This move is geared towards boosting Barberitos' presence in one of the fastest-growing franchise markets in the country, as reported by the International Franchise Association.

Leading this ambitious expansion is Matt O'Neill, a seasoned restaurant entrepreneur with a deep understanding of the Tampa Bay area. O'Neill opened the first Barberitos in Tampa in 2024, which became one of the brand's top-performing restaurants within just six months. With a second location already underway, he is now committed to significantly scaling Barberitos across the region.

"I visited a Barberitos more than a decade ago and immediately saw the potential for the concept in Tampa," O'Neill stated. His vision and confidence stem from the strong performance of the initial location and Barberitos' extensive support system for franchisees. He strongly believes that Tampa Bay is an ideal locale for further expansion, given its promising growth trajectory.

O'Neill's extensive background includes not just launching his restaurant concept but also holding corporate roles at well-known brands like Zaxby’s and Einstein Bagels. His experience is a key asset as he works to replicate the success of his initial location throughout the Tampa/St. Pete area. Additionally, O'Neill is actively involved in the Franchise Advisory Council for Barberitos, which will enable him to influence the brand's strategic direction.

Kelly Roddy, CEO of WOWorks, Barberitos' parent company, expressed excitement over the expansion, stating, "We're proud to continue partnering with Matt as he expands Barberitos' presence in high-potential markets such as Tampa/St. Pete." This partnership illustrates WOWorks' proactive approach to solidifying Barberitos' position in the market by collaborating with visionary entrepreneurs.

Barberitos stands out with its fresh, health-conscious menu, which includes a variety of customizable options ranging from burritos and bowls to quesadillas, all prepared using high-quality, fresh ingredients. The brand emphasizes a vibrant dining experience focused on flavor and customer satisfaction.

As Barberitos seeks to broaden its footprint, it also positions itself as an attractive opportunity for experienced franchisees. According to WOWorks, the brand's robust unit-level economics and growth potential make it an appealing option for seasoned entrepreneurs looking to enter the competitive fast-casual burrito segment.

Interested individuals can explore franchise opportunities with Barberitos or other WOWorks brands by visiting their website at woworksusa.com/a-place-to-invest or contacting Jesse Moore directly.

About Barberitos

Founded in 2000, Barberitos has grown into a beloved fast-casual Southwestern grill, renowned for its fresh and customizable menu options that reflect the brand's commitment to quality. Barberitos began franchising in 2002 and was acquired by WOWorks in 2022, further consolidating its foothold in the market. With ongoing developments and a focus on customer satisfaction, Barberitos is well-poised to lead the fast-casual burrito industry in the Southeast.

About WOWorks

WOWorks, established in 2020, aims to provide flavorful and healthier meals through its robust portfolio of restaurant brands, including Barberitos and others. The organization focuses on consistent growth and exceptional service, striving to partner with dedicated franchisees who share its vision of excellence in nutritious dining. For further details, visit woworksusa.com.