"Similar to last year, the vast majority of the 18 to 20 new openings in 2026 are expected to be outside of California. Its first Washington store in Kent, which opened late last year, has had to cut back operating hours to manage long lines - an indicator of pent-up demand - while its New Mexico franchise partner, pleased with results, is searching for sites to open more stores."
"While California has been our home and holds a rich history for our brand, we know El Pollo Loco is destined for more. The expansion comes on the heels of a rebrand that company leadership has dubbed "Let's Go Loco," featuring a new store design and trials of new menu items like loaded quesadillas and horchata coffee drinks."
"El Pollo Loco's shares, which have been moving sideways for months, shot up nearly 17% Friday as its results were well above Wall Street's expectations. The Costa Mesa-based chain, which expanded to Washington and New Mexico last year, plans to open more locations in other states where customers have been lining up outside some of its new outlets."
El Pollo Loco, a Southern California-based flame-grilled chicken chain, is accelerating its national expansion after reporting stronger-than-expected financial results. The company plans to open 18-20 new restaurants in 2026, with the vast majority located outside California. Recent expansion into Washington and New Mexico has generated significant demand, with the Kent, Washington location requiring reduced operating hours due to long customer lines. The chain's growth strategy includes a rebrand called "Let's Go Loco" featuring new store designs and menu items like loaded quesadillas and horchata coffee drinks. Stock prices surged nearly 17% following the earnings announcement, reflecting investor confidence in the expansion plans.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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