Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, January 23, 2026
Salad and Go has announced the closure of all 25 of its locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth market by January 2026, marking a strategic exit after facing operational challenges and a flawed business plan. This move reflects the ongoing evolution of the quick-service restaurant sector. With a shift back to Arizona for its headquarters, the company aims to refocus on its core markets, emphasizing adaptability and strategic innovation for local businesses in Phoenix.
Phoenix Insights: Salad and Go’s Dallas-Fort Worth Exits
The recent announcement of Salad and Go’s complete withdrawal from the Dallas-Fort Worth market offers a compelling case study for businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide, including those driving economic growth in Phoenix, AZ. While the quick-service restaurant industry continues its rapid evolution, even fast-growing concepts encounter significant operational challenges. Understanding these market dynamics provides valuable insights for Arizona AZ entrepreneurs committed to resilience and strategic innovation within their local economies.
For the vibrant business community of Phoenix, observing such shifts in other major markets underscores the constant need for adaptability and a robust business plan. This development prompts a closer look at the competitive landscape of the quick-service sector and reaffirms the importance of fostering an environment where Phoenix small business owners can thrive through strategic management and community engagement.
Salad and Go’s Departure from Dallas-Fort Worth
Salad and Go, recognized for its affordable and healthy drive-thru salads and wraps, recently confirmed the closure of all 25 of its remaining Dallas-Fort Worth locations by January 11, 2026. This decision marks a complete exit from the Dallas-Fort Worth market for the chain.
These latest closures follow a broader strategic realignment by the company. In September 2025, Salad and Go had already closed 41 stores across Texas and Oklahoma. These earlier shutdowns included all locations in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, along with some in the Dallas Metro area and Oklahoma. Specifically, 18 locations in North Texas were part of these initial closures. The most recent closures impacted a total of 32 stores, comprising the 25 in Texas and 7 in Oklahoma.
Following these changes, Salad and Go is relocating its headquarters from Coppell, Texas, back to Arizona, and will also close a commissary facility in North Texas. Mike Tattersfield, CEO of Salad and Go, indicated that the company faced an “economic burden” primarily due to a large kitchen facility in Dallas and a “flawed business plan.” The company’s strategy is now to refocus on strengthening its core operations within Arizona and Nevada, where it plans to continue operating at least 70 stores. The CEO has expressed an intention for the company to return to the Texas and Oklahoma markets in the future when conditions are deemed appropriate.
Navigating the Competitive Quick-Service Restaurant Landscape
The quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, particularly the healthy fast-casual segment, is characterized by intense competition and evolving consumer expectations. The global QSR market size, valued at USD 1.04 trillion in 2025, is projected to reach approximately USD 2.5 trillion by 2035, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.16% from 2026 to 2035. This growth is driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and changing consumer lifestyles that prioritize convenience.
Consumers are increasingly health-conscious, demanding nutritious, low-calorie, and plant-based menu options. This trend, coupled with a desire for transparency in ingredients, presents both opportunities and significant operational challenges for businesses in this space. QSRs must also contend with rising labor costs, which remain a substantial expense in the restaurant industry. To maintain competitiveness, many QSRs are adopting streamlined technology, such as AI in order-taking systems, smart point-of-sale systems, and self-service kiosks, to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Entrepreneurial Resilience and Adaptation in Arizona
The experience of Salad and Go underscores the critical importance of entrepreneurial resilience and strategic adaptation in any market. For Arizona AZ entrepreneurs, navigating the complex interplay of consumer demand, operational costs, and competitive pressures is a constant endeavor. Businesses that succeed often demonstrate remarkable agility in adjusting their models to meet changing market conditions.
Phoenix small business owners are well-acquainted with the need for strong foundational business principles, including meticulous market research, efficient operational management, and a deep understanding of their target demographic. The ability to innovate and respond quickly to market shifts is a hallmark of the determined Arizona AZ entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to the state’s economic vitality.
Cultivating a Pro-Growth Business Environment in Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ, has cultivated a reputation as a highly favorable environment for business development and entrepreneurial growth. Arizona boasts a business-friendly climate, characterized by affordable living and operating costs, alongside streamlined regulations that simplify the process of establishing and managing a business. These factors collectively make the state an attractive destination for new enterprises and expansions.
In 2024, the Corporations Division processed 212,547 filings, with an 85% online adoption rate, and saw the formation of 10,504 new corporations and 118,015 new limited liability companies (LLCs). Arizona ranks highly for new business growth and job creation, and there is an ongoing movement towards reducing red tape, which facilitates easier business startup and expansion. The local government in Phoenix actively supports policies that promote innovation and growth, recognizing that energized entrepreneurs are key to job creation and a culture of innovation. This supportive framework, combined with a growing workforce and private investment, helps foster a robust ecosystem where Phoenix AZ business endeavors can flourish.
The Future of Healthy Fast-Casual: Opportunities for Innovation
Despite the challenges faced by some, the overall demand for convenient and healthy food options remains strong and continues to shape the future of the QSR industry. Key trends for 2025 highlight the sustained rise of health-conscious menus, driven by consumers seeking nutritious, low-calorie, and plant-based offerings. This enduring demand creates ongoing opportunities for innovative Phoenix AZ business leaders to develop new concepts and refine existing models.
The integration of advanced digital solutions, such as self-ordering kiosks and mobile payment systems, also plays a crucial role in enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency, further driving market growth. The QSR market is evolving, and Phoenix small business ventures that can effectively combine healthy menu options with technological innovation and efficient operations are well-positioned for sustained success.
The departure of Salad and Go from the Dallas-Fort Worth market serves as a potent reminder of the dynamic and challenging nature of the quick-service restaurant industry. It underscores that even with a popular concept, strategic planning and adaptive business models are paramount for long-term success. For the thriving Phoenix AZ business community, this scenario offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the strengths that make Arizona a beacon for entrepreneurial innovation.
The commitment of Arizona AZ entrepreneurs to market adaptation, coupled with a supportive business environment that encourages growth and reduces unnecessary burdens, continues to bolster the local economy. We encourage all our readers to champion their local Phoenix small business endeavors and to remain engaged in the exciting trajectory of Arizona’s economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salad and Go Closures
Here are answers to common questions regarding Salad and Go’s recent market adjustments:
Why did Salad and Go close its Dallas-Fort Worth stores?
Salad and Go’s CEO, Mike Tattersfield, stated the company faced an “economic burden” stemming from a large kitchen in Dallas and a “flawed business plan.”
How many Salad and Go locations closed in Dallas-Fort Worth?
All 25 remaining Salad and Go stores in Dallas-Fort Worth closed by January 11, 2026. This followed earlier closures of 18 stores in North Texas.
Are all Salad and Go locations closing?
No, Salad and Go will refocus on strengthening its core operations in Arizona and Nevada, where it will continue to operate at least 70 stores.
Did Salad and Go close locations in other states?
Yes, 41 Salad and Go stores in Texas and Oklahoma closed in September 2025, which included all locations in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, and some in the Dallas Metro area and Oklahoma.
Where is Salad and Go’s headquarters now located?
Salad and Go is moving its headquarters from Coppell, Texas, back to Arizona.
Key Facts: Salad and Go Market Adjustments
| Detail | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Number of remaining DFW stores closed | 25 stores | Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas |
| Date of final DFW closures | By January 11, 2026 | Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas |
| Earlier closures in Texas and Oklahoma | 41 stores (September 2025), including all in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and some in DFW/Oklahoma | Texas and Oklahoma |
| Total recent closures in Texas and Oklahoma | 32 stores (25 in Texas, 7 in Oklahoma) | Texas and Oklahoma |
| Reason for DFW closures (CEO stated) | “Economic burden” from large Dallas kitchen and “flawed business plan” | Company-level decision |
| Headquarters relocation | From Coppell, Texas, back to Arizona | Company-level decision |
| Focus markets for continued operations | Arizona and Nevada (at least 70 stores) | Arizona and Nevada |
| Salad and Go’s product offering | Sub-$10 salads, wraps, and affordable drive-thru options | Company-level product |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Phoenix Welcomes Salad and Go’s Strategic Return
Eegee Acquisition Corp. Acquires Eegee’s Chain
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Record Rainfall in Phoenix
Record-Breaking Rainfall Hits Phoenix
Phoenix Mercury’s Legacy in WNBA Playoffs
ASU Introduces AI Course Taught by Music Industry Icon
Phoenix Mercury Takes Lead Against Minnesota Lynx
Phoenix Mercury Transforms Women’s Basketball Landscape
Phoenix Mercury Pursue Championship Glory Against Lynx
Salad and Go Closes 41 Locations Across Texas
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
