El Pollo Loco Reports 5% Same-Store Sales Growth and Geographic Expansion Plans
El Pollo Loco (LOCO) reported strong third-quarter 2026 results, highlighted by a 5% year-over-year increase in systemwide same-store sales. The company is successfully leveraging its digital presence, with digital orders now accounting for 31% of total system sales. Management noted that members of the Loco Rewards loyalty program visit twice as frequently as nonmembers, providing a buffer against tight consumer spending cycles. Looking forward, the restaurant operator is shifting from a West Coast focus to a national brand strategy, specifically targeting markets like New York through multi-unit development deals and second-generation site conversions. The company maintains healthy operational discipline, reporting a restaurant-level margin of 18.4%, which falls within its long-term target range of 18% to 20%. Management expects to open between 25 and 30 new restaurants in 2027.
Tickers: $LOCO
Topics: digital sales growth geographic expansion restaurant industry same-store sales
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