El Pollo Loco vs Smashburger
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both El Pollo Loco and Smashburger are quick-service restaurants franchises. El Pollo Loco requires an investment of $794K – $2.7M while Smashburger requires $1.2M – $2.3M. El Pollo Loco discloses average revenue of $2.2M; Smashburger makes no financial performance representation in its Item 19, which is voluntary under the FTC Franchise Rule. Note: Reported as net sales, not gross sales. El Pollo Loco has SBA lending data on file with a 6.5% charge-off rate. FranchiseVerdict rates El Pollo Loco A (Strongest tier) and Smashburger B (Above average).
| Metric | El Pollo Loco | Smashburger |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tier | BAbove average |
| Investment Range | $794K – $2.7M | $1.2M – $2.3M |
| Franchise Fee | $40K | $40K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 5.5% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $2.2M | N/ANo Item 19 representation |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 6.5% (61 loans) | Limited data |
| Total Units | 503 | 194 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | +3 units | -13 units |
| Year Began Franchising | 1980 | 2008 |
| FDD Year | 2026 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$794K – $2.7M
$1.2M – $2.3M
Franchise Fee
$40K
$40K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
5.5%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$2.2M
N/ANo Item 19 representation
SBA Charge-Off Rate
6.5% (61 loans)
Limited data
Total Units
503
194
Unit Growth (YoY)
+3 units
-13 units
Year Began Franchising
1980
2008
FDD Year
2026
2025