Established
1984
Franchise Units
25
Minimum Investment
$287,500
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$584,000
Home Based
No
Description
Juan Pollo is a restaurant brand built on a simple but powerful idea — serve delicious Mexican-style rotisserie chicken with warmth, consistency and real hospitality. Known for its slow-roasted flavors, generous family meals and community-driven legacy, Juan Pollo has become a recognizable dining staple in Southern California. For entrepreneurs who want to invest in an established but still-scalable food concept, this franchise offers a balance of authenticity, proven operations and attractive entry-level investment costs. Its niche positioning in the growing fast-casual chicken category makes Juan Pollo an accessible business opportunity for first-time operators and experienced restaurateurs alike. If you’re looking to build a local business supported by a brand with decades of operational experience, Juan Pollo stands out as a compelling choice.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in Juan Pollo means joining a brand that has carved out a unique spot within the competitive quick-service restaurant industry.
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Unique niche: Juan Pollo specializes in seasoned rotisserie chicken with Mexican-style flavors, giving it a distinctive menu compared to typical fried-chicken chains.
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Decades of operational proof: Operating successfully since the 1980s, the brand has earned long-term customer loyalty and refined its service model.
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Affordable investment entry: Compared to larger national QSR brands, Juan Pollo offers a more cost-efficient start-up model, making ownership attainable for more investors.
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Family-driven customer base: Its menu is designed for households, catering orders and value-oriented dining, supporting steady customer traffic.
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Territory expansion potential: With the brand still largely concentrated in California, there’s room for growth in new regions across the USA.
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Strong franchisor support: Franchisees gain access to operational tools, training, purchasing networks and brand resources that help reduce start-up risks.
Background
Established Year: Juan Pollo was founded in 1984 in Ontario, California.
Founder: The company was created by Albert Okura, whose passion for chicken cookery and community culture shaped the brand’s identity.
Franchising Launch: Official franchising began in 2012 under Juan Pollo Franchising, Inc.
Franchise Active Units: Approximately 25 franchise locations operate in the United States, primarily in Southern California.
Ownership Structure: The franchisor works alongside a supply-chain affiliate that helps standardize product quality and equipment across locations.
Market Presence: Juan Pollo operates within the quick-service/fast-casual restaurant category, specializing in Mexican-style rotisserie chicken. The brand enjoys strong regional recognition and is positioned for broader expansion.
Brand Journey & Philosophy: Rooted in family values, community engagement and efficient rotisserie cooking, Juan Pollo has grown steadily while maintaining a reputation for value, flavor and reliability.
Support Training
Juan Pollo equips franchisees with a structured, practical support system to simplify restaurant operations and improve the likelihood of long-term success.
Pre-Launch Support
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Guidance on site selection and lease negotiation
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Store layout planning and build-out specifications
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Assistance with equipment procurement and kitchen setup
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Vendor introductions and product sourcing support
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Clear budgeting framework based on established investment ranges
Initial Training Program
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Around 85 hours of training combining classroom learning and hands-on instruction
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Operational training in rotisserie cooking, prep standards, customer service and safety
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Inventory management, cost control and labor-efficiency training
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Full review of the brand’s operations manual
Operational Support
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Standardized recipes, equipment guidelines and daily operating procedures
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Access to a streamlined supply network
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Ongoing operational evaluations, best-practice updates and efficiency coaching
Marketing & Launch Support
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Grand-opening marketing materials and rollout assistance
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Local store marketing strategies
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Digital ordering system integration guidance
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Seasonal promotions and brand-wide marketing campaigns
Ongoing Training & Development
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Periodic refresher courses
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Regional meetings and peer collaboration opportunities
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Business performance reviews and operational improvements
Multi-Unit Growth Support
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Pathways for area development and multi-unit ownership for qualified franchisees
Ideal Candidate
The best-fit candidate for a Juan Pollo franchise generally has:
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Entrepreneurial drive: Willingness to manage a restaurant, train a team and uphold operational standards.
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Interest in foodservice: Passion for delivering high-quality meals and fostering a welcoming guest experience.
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Operational discipline: Ability to manage labor, food costs, inventory systems and cleanliness standards.
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Financial readiness: Capability to meet the total investment requirements and maintain working capital during ramp-up.
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Community focus: Enthusiasm for local outreach, catering, events and building strong neighborhood relationships.
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Growth mindset: Long-term interest in expanding to multiple units or developing territories.
Financial Detail
| Financial Category | Estimated Cost / Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $287,500 – $584,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | Typically required based on investment range (approx. $75,000+ recommended) |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing/Ad Fund Fee | Approximately 2% of Sales |
| Working Capital (First 3 Months) | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Training Program | 85 Hours (25 hours classroom + 60 hours on-site) |
| Leasehold Improvements | Included within total investment range (varies by location size) |
| Equipment & Kitchen Setup | Part of total investment (rotisserie systems, refrigeration, POS, prep stations) |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Signage | Included in build-out costs |
| Inventory (Initial Stock) | $5,000 – $8,000 approx. |
| Insurance & Permits | Varies by state; typically included in early setup costs |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $3,000 – $7,500 (recommended) |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, take-out, delivery, catering, family meals, multi-unit expansion |