Mexican fast-casual restaurant chain Tortilla has initiated a significant leadership shake-up, marking a strategic move to accelerate its growth ambitions across Europe. The announcement has already positively impacted the company's market performance, with shares rising to their highest level in over a year.
Founder Returns to Helm
Brandon Stephens, the founder of Tortilla who established the business in 2007 and served as chief executive until 2014, is making a dramatic return to the brand. He steps into the role of group chief executive with immediate effect, taking over from Andy Naylor, who had led the company for eight years. Stephens, who has remained involved as a non-executive director on the Tortilla board, emphasised his focus will be squarely on the group's long-term strategy, brand innovation, and food development initiatives.
Strengthening the Leadership Team
In addition to Stephens' appointment, Tortilla is bolstering its executive team with key industry hires. Mac Plumpton, the former managing director of healthy fast-food chain Leon, joins as the UK chief executive. Furthermore, Marta Pogroszewska, previously managing director of Gail's parent company Bread Holdings, has been appointed as a non-executive director to the board. This comprehensive leadership overhaul is designed to inject fresh expertise and drive as the company prepares for its next phase of development.
Ambitious Growth Strategy
Company executives have stated that this leadership restructuring is pivotal to advancing Tortilla's aggressive growth strategy. The firm has articulated a clear vision to become the leading pan-European fast-casual Mexican brand. This ambition follows a positive start to 2026, as reported last week, with the business operating 81 sites across the UK. The strategic focus includes not only geographical expansion but also navigating operational challenges, such as reviewing potential price increases in response to cost pressures linked to recent government budgets.
The leadership changes signal a renewed commitment to innovation and market leadership, positioning Tortilla for sustained growth in the competitive hospitality sector.
