Success stories abound in the Mexican entrepreneurial ecosystem, but few are as controversial as that of Enrique Arturo Martínez Lastra, better known as “Tuga.” The Puebla-born businessman is one of those millionaires who managed to transform an innovative idea into an international chain. However, his recent arrest has jeopardized his reputation and the legacy of his empire.
Founder of McCarthy’s Irish Pub, an Irish-inspired bar chain operating in six countries, Tuga became an influential figure among entrepreneurs and franchisees. His business model broke new ground by merging entertainment, gastronomy, and brand experience into a concept that could be replicated on a large scale.
On July 5, 2024, his name appeared in the headlines for reasons very different from his commercial successes. He was arrested in Puebla, accused of extortion, and has since been held in preventive detention while the investigation is underway. Below, we tell you who this controversial businessman is and what happened to his case.
Who is Tuga, owner of McCarthy’s Irish Pub?
Originally from Tehuacán, Puebla, Enrique Arturo Martínez Lastra studied Communications at the UPAEP (University of Puerto Rico), where he graduated in 2002. Like many entrepreneurs, his path to success was unconventional. He spent time in Canada, where he worked in precarious and even illegal conditions, from picking fruit to selling stones. His deportation marked his return to Mexico and the beginning of a new chapter.
It was in 2009 that he decided to venture into the entertainment and gastronomy sector with the opening of the first McCarthy’s Irish Pub on the Juan Pablo II Circuit in the city of Puebla. The bar featured an Irish theme, craft beer, live music, and a wings-centric menu with more than 20 flavors. The formula was an immediate success.
Tuga consolidated his franchise model in 2012, and in just five years, he already had a presence in multiple states across the country. McCarthy’s expanded to the United States, Colombia, Panama, Peru, and Paraguay, positioning itself as one of the fastest-growing bar chains in Latin America.
He also founded Free and Green S.A. de C.V., a company dedicated to the development and operation of entertainment concepts. Among its various brands, it currently operates more than 100 units in several countries. In 2014, it received the award for the most profitable franchise of the year, and in 2018, it was a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Mexico.
He also participated in TEDx conferences and business mentoring events, positioning himself as a leader in Mexican entrepreneurship.
Why Tuga was arrested in 2024
On July 5, 2024, Tuga was arrested by authorities in the state of Puebla after being accused of extortion. According to reports, the complaint was filed by a chicken supplier, who accused the businessman of alleged threats related to business deals.
The news generated surprise and concern among investors and franchisees of McCarthy’s Irish Pub, as well as among entrepreneurial circles who followed his path as an example of self-improvement. Following his arrest, he was officially remanded in custody, a measure that will keep him in prison while the legal process moves forward.
So far, no further details have been released about the ongoing investigation, and the case continues to generate debate about corporate responsibility and the legal consequences of improper business practices.
Source: ambito
