Tasty Gallos CEO says R1.35m does not guarantee franchise approval

Muhammed Gutta, founder and CEO of the chicken franchise Tasty Gallos, has stated that meeting the R1.35 million financial requirement does not guarantee an applicant will secure a franchise. The selection process involves personal interviews to evaluate business experience, commitment, and the ability to manage a sustainable restaurant long-term.

Gutta emphasizes that applicants are assessed on their business mindset and whether they intend to take an active role in management. This focus on long-term survival comes as data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) shows a shift in South Africa, where early-stage entrepreneurial activity rose from 11% in 2023 to 15% in 2025, while established business ownership declined from 6% to 4%.