For Pollo Campero, the largest Latin-inspired quick-service chicken chain in the United States, 2008 should be a big year. The company recently announced a new partnership that will put its restaurants in Wal-Mart stores across the country.
By partnering with the world’s largest retailer, Pollo Campero hopes to introduce millions of new customers to its irresistible chicken with a Latin twist.
“We’re excited about the possibilities that Wal-Mart brings to the table,” says Jorge Armenteros, executive vice president of franchise operations for Pollo Campero. “We think it’s going to be a great partnership.”
Pollo Campero has been a popular concept in Latin America for nearly 40 years. Since entering the U.S. market in 2002, it has built a strong following thanks to its signature fried and rotisserie chicken offerings. Sides include a mix of Latin and American favorites, including Campero Beans, a unique mixture of pinto beans, bacon, sausage, tomato, onion, and seasonings; Tostones, a traditional Latin American dish made from fried plantains; Spicy Rice; French fries; coleslaw; and mashed potatoes. Breakfast and dessert items round out the menu, and this year, U.S. locations will also debut a new line of citrus-infused grilled chicken aimed at attracting an even larger audience.
The chain currently boasts more than 260 stores in 11 countries on three continents, with more than 36 in the U.S. As Pollo Campero continues to expand throughout the country, opportunities for franchise expansion abound.
New operators are asked to take on a minimum three-restaurant development agreement, and $500,000 in liquid assets with at least $1 million in net worth are required. Experience is also helpful.
“One of the requirements we have is that the operator has to have quick-service, fast-casual, or similar experience,” Armenteros says. “We’re looking for operators that are proven.”
Those who qualify can get in with a rapidly growing concept that boasts a strong economic model. Average unit volumes come in at more than $1.9 million, and return on investment for Pollo Campero franchisees ranks among the top in the industry, around the 75th percentile.
The company’s goal of opening 500 new restaurants in the U.S. by 2012 calls for strong franchisee partners in key markets, and as a fairly new entrant into the U.S., Pollo Campero offers plenty of potential for attractive area development agreements. Initial growth for the brand was focused in New England and the West Coast, but new markets are opening up in the Southeast and Texas.
For more information about franchising opportunities with Pollo Campero, visit www.pollocampero.com.