Pancheros Mexican Grill has signed a multi-unit franchise agreement with Mex Midwest, a seasoned restaurant development group, to expand its presence across the Midwest.
The agreement includes plans to open three new Pancheros locations. Two new restaurants are slated to open in northern Illinois this year: the first in Princeton as early as this summer, followed by a second location in Sterling this fall. Additional units will follow as the teams actively survey sites throughout the Midwest.
Pancheros, founded in Iowa City in 1992 and maintains its corporate headquarters in Coralville. It has grown to 74 locations across 12 states.
“Welcoming franchisees of this caliber into our system reinforces the momentum we’re seeing across the brand,” said Rodney Anderson, President and Founder of Pancheros Mexican Grill. “Rob and Jeremy demonstrate what it takes to grow multiple restaurant concepts across the industry. Their priorities align with ours, and I’m certain they’ll continue to foster the positive environment we look for in our restaurants and communities.”
Mex Midwest is led by fast-casual industry veterans Jeremy Music and Rob Bowers, who have extensive experience franchising multiple brands, including Scooter’s Coffee, Wingstop, Jersey Mike’s, Smalls Sliders, and Billy Sim’s BBQ.
“As we diversify and grow our portfolio, our eyes are set on Pancheros,” said Bowers, VP of Operations and Operating Partner at Mex Midwest. “We seek out brands that deliver on operational excellence, supportive leadership and offer craveable food that builds loyal communities. Pancheros checks every box.”
