FRANCHISE RESALES

Buy an El Pollo Loco Franchise

El Pollo Loco, founded in 1975 by Juan Francisco Ochoa in Guasave, Mexico, is a fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in Mexican-style citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken and complementary dishes such as tacos, burritos, salads, and sides. The brand entered the U.S. market in 1980 and began franchising in 1987. Headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, El Pollo Loco operates over 495 locations, with 323 franchised units primarily across the Western U.S. Known for its fresh, healthier alternatives to traditional fried fast food, nearly 70% of its menu items cater to health-conscious consumers. The brand emphasizes bold flavors, quality ingredients, and fast service, appealing to families and young professionals alike.

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Why buy an El Pollo Loco Franchise?

Investing in an El Pollo Loco franchise offers entry into a well-established, fast-growing brand with a loyal customer base and a strong focus on healthier fast food alternatives. The franchise benefits from a proven business model, ongoing innovation, and a flexible restaurant format that reduces build costs and accelerates expansion. With robust franchisee support and a growing footprint, El Pollo Loco presents a compelling opportunity in the competitive fast-casual market.

El Pollo Loco Franchise Costs & Information

Based on 2025 data reported in the 2026 FDD

  • Brand Profile

    • Year Founded

      1974

    • Franchising Since

      1987

    • New Startup Cost

      $793,750 – $2,685,500

    • Avg. Resale Price

      Contact us for details

  • Franchise Fees

    • Initial franchise Fee

      $40,000

      for new territories

    • Transfer Fee

      40%

      of Initial Franchise Fee for new; 25% existing; $10,000 developers; plus attorney fees

    • Royalty Fee

      5%

      of Gross Revenue

    • Marketing Fee

      5%

      of Net Sales

  • Unit Performance

    • Total Units *

      503

    • New Units Opened *

      11

    • Units Transferred *

      21

    • Avg. Unit revenue *

      $2,236,257

    * Based on 2025 data reported in the 2026 FDD

El Pollo Loco – Additional  Information

  1. Training & Support

    El Pollo Loco provides franchisees with extensive training including classroom and in-store sessions focusing on operations, customer service, and product quality. Ongoing support encompasses marketing, supply chain management, technology tools, and operational assistance. The company also aids in site selection, store build-out, and remodeling initiatives to keep locations modern and competitive.

  2. Ideal Owner

    Ideal franchisees are entrepreneurial, community-focused individuals who value quality food and customer service. They should be prepared to operate within a proven system emphasizing consistency, hospitality, and operational efficiency. Experience in foodservice is helpful but not mandatory due to comprehensive training and support.

  3. Recognition & Awards

    El Pollo Loco is recognized for steady growth and operational excellence, with a 7% year-over-year growth rate and a low 4% three-year franchise failure rate, outperforming industry averages. The brand’s commitment to innovation and quality has earned it a strong position in the competitive fast-casual Mexican dining segment.

  4. Industry / Market

    The fast-casual Mexican food market is expanding, fueled by consumer demand for fresh, flavorful, and healthier dining options. El Pollo Loco’s focus on fire-grilled chicken and menu innovation supports its growth trajectory. The brand plans to open at least 10 new locations in 2025, including its 500th store, primarily in emerging markets like Arizona, Colorado, and Texas, while remodeling 60-70 existing restaurants to enhance guest experience.

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