El Pollo Loco Q3 revenue rises on higher comparable restaurant sales
LOCO•El Pollo Loco’s third-quarter revenue rose year over year, driven by higher comparable restaurant sales, while adjusted EPS of $0.24 met analyst expectations. The company expects about 4.5% system-wide comparable sales growth and $68 million to $70 million in adjusted EBITDA in 2026.
1. Quarterly results
El Pollo Loco reported higher third-quarter revenue year over year as comparable restaurant sales increased. Adjusted EPS was $0.24, in line with analyst expectations; net income was $6.9 million and adjusted net income was $7.3 million.
2. Sales and outlook
A 4.0% increase in average check size drove company-operated comparable sales growth. Company-operated transactions rose 0.3% and franchise transactions increased 0.9%, while higher utilities, repairs, maintenance and third-party delivery fees partially offset margin gains. The company expects about 4.5% system-wide comparable sales growth and adjusted EBITDA of $68 million to $70 million in 2026, and plans to open 25 to 30 restaurants in 2027.
