Established
1971
Franchise Units
400
Minimum Investment
$900,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$2,500,000
Home Based
No
Description
Pollo Campero is one of the most recognized Latin American restaurant brands in the world, celebrated for its bold flavors, signature fried and grilled chicken, and deep cultural roots. Originating in Central America and now operating across multiple continents, the brand has successfully positioned itself as a premium quick-service restaurant (QSR) that blends authentic Latin recipes with modern fast-casual execution.
In the United States, Pollo Campero has built a loyal following among both Hispanic and mainstream consumers, driven by its unique seasoning, high-quality ingredients, and consistent dining experience. The brand stands apart in the crowded chicken segment by offering a differentiated menu that balances comfort food appeal with global flavor authenticity. Strong brand equity, operational maturity, and a growing footprint across key U.S. markets make Pollo Campero an attractive franchise opportunity for serious multi-unit operators and experienced restaurant investors.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
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Globally Established Brand with decades of operating history and strong emotional connection among customers
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Proven U.S. Market Demand in urban, suburban, and high-traffic retail corridors
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Distinct Menu Positioning that differentiates from traditional fried chicken chains
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Scalable QSR Model suitable for single-unit and multi-unit development
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Strong Brand Loyalty within multicultural and mainstream consumer segments
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Experienced Franchisor Support with structured systems, training, and marketing playbooks
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Growth-Focused Expansion Strategy across priority U.S. territories
Background
- Established Year: 1971
- Founders: Juan José Gutiérrez
- Industry Category: Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) / Fast Casual Chicken
- Ownership: Part of a large international restaurant group with global operations
- Franchise Active Units – USA: Pollo Campero currently operates 100+ active franchise and company-owned locations in the United States, with a much larger global footprint of 400+ restaurants worldwide across North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
Pollo Campero began as a family-owned restaurant concept in Guatemala and quickly grew into an international brand known for its proprietary chicken recipes and Latin flavors. Over the decades, the company expanded throughout Central America, South America, Europe, and the United States, adapting its concept while preserving its core culinary identity.
Support Training
Pollo Campero offers a comprehensive franchise support system designed to help operators launch, manage, and scale their business efficiently.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Restaurant design, layout, and construction specifications
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Equipment sourcing and vendor coordination
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Pre-opening project management support
Training Programs
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In-depth initial training covering operations, food preparation, safety, and quality control
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Management and leadership training for owners and key staff
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On-site opening support during launch period
Operational Support
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Standardized operating systems and procedures
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Supply chain and approved vendor access
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Ongoing field support and performance reviews
Marketing & Brand Support
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National and regional marketing campaigns
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Digital marketing, promotions, and loyalty initiatives
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Local store marketing strategies tailored to each territory
Ongoing Support
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Continuous training updates and system improvements
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New product development and menu innovation
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Access to experienced franchise operations teams
Ideal Candidate
Pollo Campero is best suited for experienced restaurant operators or well-capitalized investors seeking a proven QSR brand with strong growth potential.
Ideal candidates typically have:
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Prior experience in multi-unit restaurants, QSR, or food service operations
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Strong leadership and people-management skills
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Financial capacity to meet investment and liquidity requirements
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Passion for hospitality, quality food, and brand standards
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Ability to operate hands-on or oversee professional management teams
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Interest in developing prime urban or high-traffic suburban locations
Multi-unit developers and area developers are particularly attractive to the brand as it continues expanding across key U.S. markets.
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $900,000 – $2,500,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $500,000+ |
| Net Worth Requirement | $1.5M+ |
| Leasehold Improvements | $350,000 – $900,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & Fixtures | $250,000 – $550,000 |
| Furniture, Signage & Technology | $120,000 – $300,000 |
| Initial Marketing / Grand Opening | $30,000 – $75,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $75,000 – $200,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing / Brand Fund Fee | 2% – 4% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 Months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Dine-In, Takeout, Delivery, Catering |