Del Taco Promotes 23-Year Vet to Top Spot; Shirlene Lopez Named Executive Vice President.

Business Editors

LAGUNA HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 1, 2002

Del Taco Inc. today announced that 23-year company veteran Shirlene Lopez has been promoted to executive vice president.

All company restaurant operations and training now report to Lopez, who is also responsible for corporate design and development.

Lopez first joined Del Taco at age 14 where she wiped tables and mopped floors, the only tasks available to a 14-year-old. Before rising up the corporate ladder, Lopez first spent time in every facet of the restaurant. She held every position possible, and became manager within five years of joining the company.

At the corporate office, Lopez also held positions in training, human resources and office management. In 1997, Lopez became vice president, responsible for budget, design, decor and development of the company's restaurants. Today, Lopez is responsible for all restaurant operations and the training department.

"We can put Shirlene into any situation, and know she'll perform at 110 percent," said Kevin K. Moriarty, CEO and Chairman of Del Taco. "Her unique combination of field experience and corporate savvy makes Shirlene a tremendous asset to every part of our business."

Lopez and her husband reside in Mission Viejo, Calif.

Del Taco is a privately held company that operates, or franchises, more than 395 Mexican quick service restaurants throughout the United States. Del Taco is the second largest Mexican restaurant chain in the United States with individual restaurant sales volumes that exceed all other Mexican quick service competitors. Del Taco features fresh ingredients, made-to-order food, unique Mexican entrees, and an American menu that includes double cheeseburgers, shakes and crinkle cut fries. Del Taco restaurants are designed with a festive interior and drive thru.

Note to Editors: Photo available upon request.