Taco Bell Australia Finds New Custodian in Restaurant Brands Australia
Taco Bell’s presence in Australia is set to continue, with its current operator, Collins Foods, successfully offloading its restaurant holdings to a new owner. This significant handover occurs just one month shy of Collins Foods’ self-imposed deadline to exit the brand’s Australian operations. The American-owned Mexican fast-food chain will now fall under the stewardship of Restaurant Brands Australia Holdings Pty Limited (RBA), a move that signals a commitment to the brand’s long-term viability in the Australian market.
RBA is poised to take the reins of 20 existing Taco Bell stores spread across the nation. However, this transition will also involve a strategic consolidation, with seven outlets slated for closure. This decision is part of a broader network recalibration, explicitly designed to fortify the brand and pave the way for sustained future growth. While the exact locations of any new outlets remain under wraps, further details are anticipated in the coming weeks, generating a buzz of anticipation among fans.
David Mantellini, the outgoing General Manager of Taco Bell Australia, expressed optimism about the future. “This is an important moment for Taco Bell in Australia,” he stated. “We strongly believe in this market and are excited about the future with a clear focus on growing the brand to bring more Taco Bell restaurants to more Australians. This new partnership with RBA reinforces that we are here for the long term.”
The proposed transaction is contingent upon RBA and Taco Bell finalising the intricate terms of their partnership, securing necessary regulatory approvals, and meeting other standard conditions precedent to such a deal. Until the sale is officially completed, Collins Foods will continue to manage the day-to-day operations of all Taco Bell restaurants as usual, ensuring a seamless transition for customers and staff alike.
This development comes as no surprise to industry observers, following Collins Foods’ public announcement in April 2025 of its intention to divest its Taco Bell Australia business. Collins Foods, a significant player in the Australian fast-food landscape with extensive KFC operations, had previously indicated that should a suitable buyer not emerge within a year, the company would explore alternative “exit options” for its Australian Taco Bell outlets. Currently, the brand operates 27 locations nationwide.
A Storied, Yet Challenging, Australian Journey
Taco Bell’s history in Australia is one marked by ambition and persistent challenges. The US-owned fast-food giant first attempted to establish a foothold in the Australian market way back in 1981. However, this initial foray was met with legal obstacles, notably a dispute with a Sydney-based restaurant operating under the name Taco Bell’s Casa, which ultimately led to the brand’s early departure.
A second attempt to conquer the Australian palate was made in 1997. This venture, while initially promising, also proved to be short-lived, with the doors closing after just eight years of operation. Undeterred, Taco Bell embarked on its third and, thus far, final Australian expedition in 2017. This latest iteration of the brand had ambitious plans, aiming to expand its footprint to over 50 stores by the close of 2021.
A Familiar Face at the Helm
The incoming operator, Restaurant Brands Australia, is far from a stranger to the Taco Bell brand. RBA boasts a long-standing global partnership with Taco Bell’s parent company, Yum! Brands. This established relationship extends to their current operation of Taco Bell restaurants not only across New South Wales but also in several international territories.
Beyond its Taco Bell ventures, RBA manages a substantial and diverse portfolio of restaurants for other globally recognised food brands. This extensive experience across multiple brands, both within Australia and on the international stage, positions RBA as a well-equipped and seasoned operator ready to steer Taco Bell Australia towards a more stable and prosperous future. Their deep understanding of franchise operations and brand management will be crucial in revitalising the chain and ensuring its long-term success Down Under.
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