Operating under the name TDM Bay Area Management Corp., LaBrie paid around $100,000 to assume the so-called "master developer" role. In return, he will share in the royalties and franchise fees. Taco Del Mar's Neil Hollingsworth tells GlobeSt.com LaBrie's income will include 6% of gross sales from the restaurants in his territory as well as a percentage of the franchise fees, which start at $20,000 for the first location.

LaBrie's agreement, which launches Taco Del Mar's foray into California, is similar to agreements the chain has entered into for its expansion into Texas, Arizona, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah and British Columbia. In addition to South Bay, Hollingsworth says Taco Del Mar is working toward similar agreements for the San Diego and Sacramento markets.

As part of LaBrie's ramp up, he has formed a marketing and development team that includes Grubb & Ellis retail brokers Sarah Edwards and Marilyn Hansen. Hansen is familiar with the needs of quick-service restaurants, having placed about 30 Quizno's franchises. Edwards is serving as the direct liaison on Taco Del Mar real estate matters.