Pollo Campero Takes the Florida Panhandle: Why Now Is the Time to Invest

As the world’s largest Central American chicken franchise, Pollo Campero has built a strong network of over 85 restaurants in the U.S. and another 270 worldwide. Now, it is looking to the state of Florida for continued growth. As a key player in the booming chicken segment, Pollo Campero has identified great opportunity in the state to meet untapped demand while bringing its unique flavors and strong customer loyalty to local communities.

“All of the demographic indicators that we typically look to for expansion planning are strong,” explained Blas Escarcega, director of franchise development. “Over a quarter of Florida’s population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, positioning us to perform well as we expand our Central-American-inspired flavors in the state.”

With two successful locations already operating in south Florida, Pollo Campero is now focused on bringing its flavorful chicken to the northern part of the state, focusing intently on the Florida Panhandle.

Here are five reasons to consider opening a Pollo Campero in Florida.

The Brand Is Great at Attracting and Retaining Fans

Because of its elevated chicken options that still offer a home-cooked taste, Pollo Campero attracts curious guests and quickly turns them into loyal fans.

The northern parts of Florida are home (permanently or temporarily) to a range of individuals. Whether it’s Florida natives, vacationers passing through or seasonal agricultural workers coming and going to work produce crops, Pollo Campero’s offerings, which blend flavors from both Central America and the U.S., stand out in the market and serve to draw curious first-time diners in.

“We are different, unique and you can’t get that anywhere else,” said Escarcega. “Not everyone has the variety of seasonings and sides that we offer. Our offerings will resonate well in the market.”

Pollo Campero places quality and a family-oriented atmosphere first, focusing on bringing its historical heritage and food culture to communities in the U.S. in an accessible, welcoming way, and these efforts have served the brand well with loyal customers. Much of its expansion can be attributed to its dedicated fan base, and Florida consumers are expected to be no exception.

Break Into the Multi-Billion Dollar Fast Food Chicken Segment

With its quick growth and unique flavors, Pollo Campero has already established itself as a major player in the over $55 billion fast-food chicken franchise market.

“Everyone is trying to get into the chicken category right now, '' said Luis Javier Rodas, managing director and chief operating officer. “We have very dedicated customers with a very high ticket price. Our customers spend a lot more money with us than most other brands.” 

Pollo Campero’s recipes are inspired by family recipes that have been perfected and passed down for generations. With the use of a unique blend of spices and a careful preparation process, Pollo Campero has created a delectable fried chicken that honors its Central American heritage while still being familiar and accessible to the U.S. markets.

“We’re talking about marinated to the bone, slow-down-and-enjoy-every-bite chicken,” said Rodas. “A deep, rich and unique taste that can only be obtained by uniting the freshest ingredients with the best, complementary spices. It’s about combining generations of family recipes into the perfect, savory bite.”

Succeed with a Strong Support Team Standing Behind You

Pollo Campero is well known for its strong support system, which Florida franchisees can expect to lean on as they grow. With a hearty franchise network headquartered in Dallas, the brand has built systems and processes to span across hundreds of restaurants, offering support with business-related needs such as marketing, real estate and technology.

“We want to make sure franchisees can get the training and tools necessary to make them successful,” said Escarcega. “It's one thing to say, ‘We want you to do this,’ but it's another to ensure they have the tools and capabilities to succeed.”

Franchisees Keep Coming Back

Multi-unit franchisees are a sign of a strong brand. As the franchisor works to reach the 250-unit mark in the U.S. by 2026, multi-unit owners have been key contributors to the brand’s growth.

Further, while many other popular chicken concepts have sold out markets nationwide, Pollo Campero has identified countless target markets both within and beyond Florida as it continues to grow. By partnering with Pollo Campero, franchisees can open a unique chicken franchise in their local community that will stand out among other run-of-the-mill options.

“Pollo Campero’s operational model has proven successful for hundreds of franchisees in markets around the world,” said Rodas. “Pollo Campero offers an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a brand with a huge international following and proven model of success that’s now moving into the American market. Franchise investors who get on board now will have the opportunity to establish multi-units in key territories.”

Be a Local Hero

What could feel better? Opening a Pollo Campero in northern Florida will bring an unmatched, in-demand dining experience to the local community. For both new and dedicated guests, this will be a celebrated development that will keep diners coming back.

“The past few years have been incredible for Pollo Campero, and our franchise concept is all about allowing new customers to try an incredible product,” said Rodas. “Now, as we move forward with a strategic growth mindset, we are eager to bring Pollo Campero to more communities by partnering with qualified franchisees who can build locally-owned businesses they can be proud of.”

Initial investments range from $1,287,250 – $2,491,500*. To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/pollocampero/info .

*To see the brand’s full reported financials, please reference Pollo Campero’s Franchise Disclosure Document (updated July 13, 2022).