El Pollo Loco NASDAQ: LOCO reported first-quarter 2026 results that management said reflected continued momentum from its ongoing brand transformation, highlighted by same-store sales growth and margin expansion alongside increased marketing and operational initiatives. Get El Pollo Loco alerts:Sign UpFirst-quarter sales and margin performance Chief Executive Officer Liz Williams said the company was “proud of our first quarter results,” citing system-wide same-store sales growth of 5.8% and restaurant-level margin expansion of 320 basis points year-over-year.

El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (LOCO) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.28 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.22 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.19 per share a year ago.

COSTA MESA, Calif., May 07, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: LOCO) (the “Company”) today announced financial results for the 13-week period ended April 1, 2026.

El Pollo Loco® reimagines this favorite with bold spices and dipping sauces El Pollo Loco® reimagines this favorite with bold spices and dipping sauces

COSTA MESA, Calif., April 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (“El Pollo Loco”) (NASDAQ: LOCO) today announced that it will host a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2026 financial results on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern Time.

El Pollo Loco has rallied over 30% YTD, sharply outperforming a weak restaurant sector and maintaining strong execution amid industry headwinds. LOCO trades at 6.8x FY26 EV/adjusted EBITDA, with a disciplined franchise-focused expansion strategy and mid-single-digit revenue growth outlook. Same-restaurant sales rebounded to 2.1% in Q4, driven by successful menu innovation and value-focused offerings, with franchise comps notably outpacing company-owned stores.

El Pollo Loco has executed an asset-light turnaround, driving a ~30% stock gain and outperforming peers, with a strong Q4 and robust opening pipeline. LOCO's menu innovation, protein-heavy bowls, and competitive pricing are capturing market share from fast-casual rivals like Chipotle, supporting improved same-store sales and margins. Franchise expansion, cost control, and strategic use of failed locations are enhancing unit economics, with management guiding for continued sales and EBITDA growth through FY 2028.

A major move in the restaurant sector captured the market's attention, as El Pollo Loco NASDAQ: LOCO shares rose an impressive 17% on March 13. The catalyst for this sudden rally was El Pollo Loco's fourth-quarter 2025 earnings report, which showcased results that decisively surpassed Wall Street's forecasts for profit and revenue.

The brand expands its loyalty platform beyond discounts, offering members new, high-value rewards and exclusive access. The brand expands its loyalty platform beyond discounts, offering members new, high-value rewards and exclusive access.