Questions & Answers
What areas are available for franchising?
Please refer to the "Territories" tab for areas that are currently open for development.
What is my initial investment?
Based on the amounts listed in our current FDD (Franchise Disclosure Document), you can estimate between $427,850 - $802,350 per unit. This does not include real estate estimates which vary by area. Our franchise fee is $40,000 per unit.
What are the financial requirements?
Our minimum financial requirements are $1.0 million total net worth and $300K liquid assets per unit.
What are the operational requirements?
We require a minimum five years of experience as an owner/operator within the restaurant industry. You must also live in the area of development in order to manage the restaurant on a daily basis.
What is El Pollo Loco's Approval Process?
Step 1 - On-Line Inquiry
If you meet or exceed our financial and operational minimum requirements as stated above and you are interested in an open territory (see Territories tab), complete the on-line inquiry form.
Step 2 - Phone Conference
Once we receive your on-line inquiry form, one of our Franchise Development team members will set up a phone interview with you to further discuss your interest in franchising. If both parties are in agreement, you will be directed to Step 3.
Step 3 - Franchise Application & FDD
You will be sent the El Pollo Loco Franchise Application and Franchise Disclosure Document Acknowledgement Form. Once completed and returned in its entirety with all required documentation, the FDD will be sent to you either electronically via download or hard copy via US Mail.
Step 4 - Operational & Financial Approval
Your application will be reviewed internally and an operational assessment will be set up with one of our team members.
Step 5 - El Pollo Loco Management Approval
Your application and business plan will be presented to our Management Team for review and approval. If approved, a Development Agreement will be prepared and sent to you.
How long does the approval process take?
Based on a completed application and all required documentation, the approval process will typically take between 6-9 months.
Do I have to find my own restaurant?
Yes, you are required to locate a site within your prescribed area of development with the assistance and guidance of our well qualified real estate staff.
Do I have to build my own restaurant?
Yes, you are required to build your restaurant, however, we do assign a project manager to guide you through the process.
How long will it take to open for business?
Each area of development has different permit timelines and city requirements, however, we estimate 18 months for a free-standing building and 9-12 months for an end-cap unit.
How much profit can I expect to make?
We do not make profit claims. There are strict regulations in the franchise industry that limit our ability to estimate how successful your restaurant will be.