Overview

• Taco Bell has officially canceled plans to open restaurants in Germany, including three locations already leased in Berlin.
• The initial rollout of 25 outlets in 2024, with up to 150 by 2030, was postponed to summer 2025 before being terminated entirely.
• Franchisee Ilkem Sahin, responsible for leading the expansion, faces allegations of financial misconduct, unpaid suppliers, and employee mistreatment.
• Yum! Brands, Taco Bell's parent company, distanced itself from Sahin but continues to maintain some business ties with his holding company.
• The decision underscores the challenges of international expansion through third-party franchise partnerships, especially in high-stakes markets like Germany.