El Pollo Loco Expands into Idaho, Accelerates National Growth
Event summary
- El Pollo Loco opened its first Idaho restaurant in Meridian, marking entry into its 10th state.
- The brand plans to open 18–20 new restaurants systemwide in 2026, nearly double its 2025 pace.
- Less than two years ago, El Pollo Loco operated in just seven states; it has since added Washington, New Mexico, and Idaho.
- The Meridian location is operated by a franchise group with over 25 years of El Pollo Loco experience in California.
The big picture
El Pollo Loco’s rapid state expansion reflects a broader trend of regional QSR brands pushing for national scale. The company’s focus on franchise-driven growth aligns with industry shifts toward lighter capital-intensive models, though success will depend on balancing speed with operational consistency.
What we're watching
- Execution Risk
- Whether El Pollo Loco can sustain its aggressive expansion pace while maintaining unit economics.
- Market Penetration
- The pace at which the brand gains traction in non-California markets like Idaho and Texas.
- Franchise Dynamics
- How franchisee interest evolves as El Pollo Loco pushes into new states with less established brand recognition.
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