Why Now is the Time to Invest in Pollo Campero

Fast-casual chicken franchise Pollo Campero has proven itself to be a power player in the international food service industry, already establishing 85-plus U.S. locations and another 270 around the world. Now, with a new strategy to reach 250 locations open by 2026, Pollo Campero is set to become one of the most dominant players in the $40.6 billion fast-food chicken franchise segment. The brand is leveraging a proven business model, loyal fanbase and experienced leadership team to attract multi-unit, multi-brand franchisees in markets around the country. 

“We've never been in a stronger position,” said Director of Franchise Development Blas Escarcega. “Not only from a unit economics perspective but also because we have the infrastructure in place to allow franchisees to grow. We came out of the pandemic stronger than ever because we offer a unique product that not just anyone can create overnight.” 

Pollo Campero started in Guatemala in 1971, and now, more than 50 years later, its dedication to high-quality and flavorful chicken recipes hasn’t changed. The franchise has curated a devoted fan base by celebrating diversity and the beauty of melding tastes by offering a melting pot of Latin American and U.S. flavors. 

The chicken segment is also one of the fastest growing in the restaurant industry, Escarcega noted. In fact, 84% of consumers globally order chicken from a restaurant or dining establishment at least once a month, and Americans consume more than 65 billion chickens every year. 

“Simply put, we have the best-tasting chicken,” said Escarcega. “Whether it be our fried chicken, grilled chicken, or empanadas — everything is unique, flavorful and delicious. We don't take shortcuts, and we work hard to ensure that we maintain the consistency of the flavor profile.” 

The Pollo Campero concept offers franchisees an opportunity to tap into the booming segment while being a part of a brand that is heavily dedicated to the ongoing success of franchise owners. The franchise proudly offers support in everything from real estate site selection, marketing assistance, an in-depth training program, a robust technology platform and more. 

When a franchisee comes into the system, the corporate team shows them the ropes of all things Pollo Campero. This includes the tools and technology utilized, the quality of the products, the different phases of managing a restaurant, how to ensure consistency and more. And franchisees can expect the same level of support they receive during training throughout the course of ownership. 

Escarcega noted that the brand has invested heavily in its Support Center in Dallas, from which it offers assistance to all its franchisees in the U.S. “We want to make sure franchisees can get the training and tools necessary to make them successful,” he said. “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.” 

This support infrastructure is an important part of accelerating growth at Pollo Campero over the next several years. Escarcega says Pollo Campero’s five-year plan is to reach 180 corporate units and 85 franchise locations — 265 overall by 2026. 

To get there, the franchise is not only looking for savvy business people but partners who are passionate about the Pollo Campero’s legacy, vision and product. And for prospective owners who share a passion for the brand, the time has never been better to invest. The Pollo Campero franchise has wide open territory availability and has identified markets all over the country primed for growth, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, San Diego, Utah, Colorado, North Florida, San Antonio and Texas border region. 

“As we continue to grow and set our brand apart in the booming chicken category, we are eager to welcome new franchisees to the Pollo Campero family and introduce our beloved products to more communities around the country,” says Escarcega. 

Initial investments range from $1,287,250 – $2,491,500*. For more information, visit https://camperofranchise.com/.

*To see the brand’s full reported financials, please reference Pollo Campero’s Franchise Disclosure Document (updated June 7, 2021). 

ABOUT POLLO CAMPERO:

Pollo Campero is a fast-casual restaurant chain focused on delighting guests with better chicken offerings. Through its flavor and quality, Pollo Campero offers a unique and convenient feel-good eating experience for individual, group/family and catering occasions. Chicken entrees can be ordered either Campero Fried or Citrus-Grilled, bone-in or boneless and paired with an array of fresh sides, drinks and desserts for a complete meal. Pollo Campero started as a small family-owned restaurant in Guatemala in 1971 and has grown into one of the biggest chicken chains in the world.