Accelerated Openings and Adaptability

El Pollo Loco's ambitious plans for 2026 involve accelerating its store openings despite the current macroeconomic challenges surrounding tariffs. The chain's CEO mentioned how their flexible format enables the company and franchisees to seamlessly fit into second-generation spaces, taking advantage of restaurant closures by converting them into El Pollo Loco outlets. This adaptability not only allows for cost-effective expansion but also promises improved financial returns as the brand spreads its footprint across the nation.