El Pollo Loco, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOCO) is an American restaurant company specializing in Mexican-style grilled chicken. Founded in 1975 by Juan Francisco Ochoa in Guasave, Mexico, the brand entered the U.S. market in 1980 with its first Southern California location. Over the decades, El Pollo Loco has built a reputation for its signature citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken, prepared fresh throughout the day. The company operates both company-owned and franchised restaurants, striving to deliver consistent quality and authentic flavors across its portfolio.
The company’s core menu centers on its fire-grilled chicken offerings, which are available as full meals, boneless chicken breast options, and in wraps, burritos, tacos, salads and bowls. Complementing its flagship protein are salsas, sides such as Mexican rice and charro beans, and an array of limited-time offerings that emphasize fresh ingredients and regional Mexican flavors. El Pollo Loco also provides catering services for corporate and private events, along with digital ordering through its website and mobile application, loyalty rewards and third-party delivery partnerships to enhance customer convenience.
El Pollo Loco’s restaurant network is primarily concentrated in the Western and Southwestern United States, with a strong presence in California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas and Utah. The company continues to expand its footprint through strategic openings of company-operated venues and selective franchising agreements. By tailoring menu innovations and marketing initiatives to local tastes, El Pollo Loco maintains engagement with diverse customer bases across urban, suburban and growing secondary markets.
Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Bernard Acoca, the company has focused on enhancing operational efficiencies, expanding digital and delivery channels, and optimizing its restaurant portfolio. Acoca brings extensive experience in restaurant brand transformation and focus on digital acceleration, having previously worked with other quick-service and casual-dining concepts. El Pollo Loco’s management team emphasizes sustainable ingredient sourcing, targeted marketing campaigns and technology investments designed to drive same-store sales growth and long-term shareholder value.
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