Introduction to Salad and Go

Salad and Go, a unique salad chain known for its low-priced salads and drive-thru-only format, has announced plans to close 41 of its restaurants. This decision includes the closure of all locations in Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, leaving only a few stores in the Dallas metro area, Oklahoma, Arizona, and Las Vegas to remain operational.

History of Salad and Go

The chain was founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife Tony and Roushan Christofellis in Gilbert, Arizona. Their mission was to provide a healthier alternative to traditional fast food, offering salads for under $8 in small, conveniently located stores. The menu features a variety of options, including salads, wraps, breakfast burritos, soup, and beverages like lemonade, tea, and cold brew.

Reasons for Closure

According to CEO Mike Tattersfield, who took on the role in April 2025, the closures will allow the company to focus on its Dallas and Oklahoma markets. Tattersfield expressed that this decision was not made lightly, calling it a "difficult moment" for the brand. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to the brand’s mission and believes in its potential for growth and positive impact on the communities it serves.

CEO’s Statement

Tattersfield stated, "Salad and Go is a disruptive brand within QSR, built to challenge the status quo and deliver something better for today’s guests. We deeply believe in the power and the mission of this brand, and in the positive impact it can have for the communities we serve." He also expressed gratitude to the company’s employees, past and present, for their contributions to building the brand.

Expansion and Optimism

Salad and Go made its Texas debut in 2021, opening its first location in Plano. The chain expanded rapidly, nearly doubling the number of stores over the past two years. By May 2025, it had more than 140 locations and had opened a central commissary kitchen in Garland in 2024, designed to service up to 500 locations. This rapid expansion and investment in infrastructure suggest that the company was optimistic about its future growth and success.

Parallel Between Disruptive Brands and Failure

The decision to close several locations raises an interesting question: Is there a parallel between brands that describe themselves as "disruptive" and those that ultimately fail? While being a disruptive brand can be a strength, it also comes with significant challenges and risks. The failure of Salad and Go to sustain its rapid expansion and maintain profitability in certain markets may serve as a cautionary tale for other brands that aim to challenge the status quo.

Conclusion

The closure of 41 Salad and Go locations marks a significant shift in the company’s strategy and a scaling back of its ambitious expansion plans. Despite this setback, the brand remains committed to its mission and is focusing on its core markets in Dallas and Oklahoma. Only time will tell if this decision will ultimately allow Salad and Go to grow stronger and achieve its goal of making delicious, nutritious food accessible to all.