A fast food restaurant in Charles City has closed its doors after over two decades in business.
Taco John’s on Gilbert Street posted a notification on the building over the weekend that reads, “Thank You to all our loyal customers of Charles City and the surrounding communities for 23 years of serving you! This location has permanently closed.”
In an email from owner Aaron Nelson to KCHA, they have decided not to participate in changes planned by the Taco John’s corporation which would require either new kitchen equipment or full kitchen replacement as well as full interior and exterior remodels. Nelson adds that for as many locations as possible, new buildings are also being highly encouraged.
Nelson also says that while labor and operating costs have risen for all businesses, the decision to close was not caused by those factors. He notes that the Charles City Taco John’s was staffed at most times, even through the pandemic, because they were always hiring and training; and that sales have mostly increased over the last three years when compared to the same month of the prior year.
There are Taco John’s restaurants still in operation in Waverly, Mason City and Clear Lake.
