Taco Bell and Arby’s powerhouse recognized for innovation, development, and people-first culture
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–QSR Magazine has named Diversified Restaurant Group (DRG), a leading franchisee operating more than 360 Taco Bell and Arby’s restaurants across multiple states, as its 2025 Franchisee of the Year. DRG becomes only the second organization in the quick-service restaurant industry to receive this prestigious honor, which recognizes exceptional, forward-thinking multi-unit franchise operators.
QSR Magazine selected DRG for redefining the franchise model through experience-driven development, early adoption of emerging technology, and a steadfast commitment to its people-first culture. DRG’s rapid growth and innovation have positioned it among the most influential franchise operators in the quick-service sector. To read QSR’s cover page story on DRG, please visit www.QSRMagazine.com/story/Franchisee-of-the-Year.
“DRG exemplifies the modern franchise partner—they’re not just running restaurants; they’re building destinations and testing the future of the quick-service industry,” said Ben Coley, Editor, QSR Magazine. “Their impact is clear, from iconic Taco Bell Cantinas—like the Las Vegas Strip location generating an impressive $8 million annually—to helping the Taco Bell brand pioneer the new Live Más Café beverage concept. DRG continues to push the envelope with initiatives such as sustainable technology, including EV charging stations and solar carports.”
Founded on a strong real estate foundation, DRG has expanded rapidly since 2014, growing its Taco Bell footprint across Northern and Southern California, Nevada, and Kansas City. The company diversified with the addition of Arby’s restaurants, leading the brand’s innovation through initiatives such as the Arby’s food truck and new catering prototypes.
“It’s a tremendous honor for our entire team to be recognized as QSR’s Franchisee of the Year,” said SG Ellison, President and CEO, Diversified Restaurant Group. “Our growth isn’t powered by development alone—it’s driven by our people, who live our values and deliver genuine hospitality every day. We’re committed to supporting their growth with programs like tuition reimbursement, because investing in our team is the key to our success. This award is a testament to their dedication and to our strong partnerships with the world-class brands of Taco Bell and Arby’s.”
At its core, DRG’s mission is to positively impact the lives of its team members and the communities it serves. Company leaders and restaurant teams actively raise funds for Taco Bell Foundation’s Live Más Scholarship and local community grants, and DRG helped launch the Taco Bell Foundation’s nationwide Round Up program in Taco Bell restaurants, which has raised more than $220 million since 2019. The company also champions inclusion through its Women’s Leadership Network and partnerships with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and Junior Achievement USA.
About Diversified Restaurant Group
Diversified Restaurant Group was founded in 2014 when David Grieve and SG Ellison acquired 85 Taco Bell restaurants on the West Coast. The company has since grown to operate more than 360 restaurants across Taco Bell and Arby’s in multiple states, employing thousands of team members. Headquartered in Las Vegas, DRG is one of Taco Bell’s largest franchisees and is recognized for its focus on growth, operational excellence and concept innovation, including its role in helping pilot Taco Bell’s Cantina and Live Más Café concepts.
About QSR & WTWH Media
QSR delivers timely and in-depth reporting on the $350 billion quick-service restaurant industry. For 25 years, QSR has defined this market, which includes traditional fast food, fast casual, coffee, snacks, concessions, and related segments of the foodservice industry. WTWH Media is an award-winning, digital-first B2B media and marketing company that connects brand marketers with targeted, hard-to-reach audiences of executives and practitioners.
Contacts
BCH Agency
Jordan Shellhaas
[email protected]
502-930-4888
