La Tiara taco shells, which vanished from shelves earlier this year, are set to make a comeback after the brand's manufacturing plant was acquired by General Mills. The facility in Gladstone, Missouri, will reopen in January 2026, according to a statement from the food giant.
General Mills spokesperson Mollie Wulff confirmed the acquisition of assets from Gladstone Food Products, the former manufacturer of La Tiara hard taco shells. “We look forward to welcoming the well-loved La Tiara brand to the General Mills family of brands,” she said.
The plant ceased production in January due to construction-related disruptions and costs, leaving the company owing more than $5 million to creditors. Following the closure, a Facebook group titled “Please Bring Back La Tiara Taco Shells” gathered nearly 20,000 members, who reacted with delight at the news of the revival.
General Mills plans to expand the workforce from 20 to 70 employees and operate three shifts to increase production. City Manager Robert Baer announced the reopening at a Gladstone City Council meeting, noting it was happening “much quicker” than anticipated. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but media reports estimate the acquisition cost around $10 million.
General Mills already owns the Old El Paso brand, acquired in 2001, and is now set to revive the beloved La Tiara shells, though some fans have expressed concerns about whether the taste will remain the same under new ownership.
