El Pollo Loco Adds Domino’s Executive to Board Amid Expansion Push
Event summary
- Frank Garrido, EVP and Chief Restaurant Officer of Domino’s Pizza, joins El Pollo Loco’s board as an independent member effective March 1, 2026.
- Garrido replaces Mark Buller, who retires from the board after a 10-year tenure effective February 28, 2026.
- Garrido brings extensive restaurant operations experience, having driven domestic growth for Domino’s since 2017.
- El Pollo Loco operates over 500 company-owned and franchised restaurants across seven U.S. states and internationally in the Philippines.
The big picture
El Pollo Loco’s appointment of Frank Garrido reflects a strategic move to leverage his operational expertise amid plans to expand its footprint. The shift in board composition underscores the company’s focus on maximizing shareholder value through improved restaurant operations and development. This aligns with broader industry trends where operational efficiency and scalable growth are key differentiators in the competitive quick-service restaurant landscape.
What we're watching
- Operational Scaling
- How Garrido’s experience at Domino’s will influence El Pollo Loco’s expansion strategy in existing and new markets.
- Governance Dynamics
- Whether the addition of Garrido will accelerate operational improvements and franchise development.
- Competitive Positioning
- The pace at which El Pollo Loco can differentiate itself in the crowded quick-service restaurant sector.