DALLAS — Fuzzy’s Taco Shop is focusing on expansion through franchising. The Texas-based company announced it is planning to open an additional 20 restaurants by the end of the year, on top of the seven that have opened since January.

Fuzzy’s said that until now, much of its franchise growth has come from the brand’s cult-like following. The plan to aggressively expand across the country marks a shift away from this passive approach, the company said.

“Traditionally, our approach to growth has been a little bit backwards,” said Mel Knight, president of Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. “We haven’t really focused on marketing our franchise opportunity. The growth we’ve experienced has all been organic, which is a great place to be.”

The company said it plans to establish emerging markets across the United States, including Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Colorado and Arkansas.

Knight will guide the franchise development efforts alongside chief development officer Michael Marby, who recently left his post as president of MOOYAH Burgers, Fries and Shakes to lead Fuzzy’s expansion.

“Fuzzy’s is the opportunity in the franchising world right now,” Marby said. “If someone wants to invest in something special and be part of an exclusive club of people, this is it.”