Same-store sales at Taco Bell dove slightly in the most recent quarter, falling 1% year over year, a dip its parent company attributed to “challenging industry conditions.”
Taco Bell was the only of Yum Brands’ chains to see comps slip in the second quarter, as KFC’s rose 2% year over year and Pizza Hut’s were flat.
Figures for the latter two brands exclude Yum’s China segment, which is currently being spun off as a separate company.
Taco Bell’s cooling comps come as the chain is planning a new flagship location in Las Vegas and looks to amplify its expansion efforts, particularly in urban markets. The chain said it aims to open 200 urban restaurants by 2022.
The flagship store, located on the Vegas strip, will feature several elements of the brand’s new Cantina concept, which offers hallmarks typically reserved for the fast-casual segment, including alcohol and shareable plates.
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