Smashburger vs El Pollo Loco
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Smashburger and El Pollo Loco are quick-service restaurants franchises. Smashburger requires an investment of $1.2M – $2.3M while El Pollo Loco requires $794K – $2.7M. 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 Smashburger B (Above average) and El Pollo Loco A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | Smashburger | El Pollo Loco |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove average | AStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.2M – $2.3M | $794K – $2.7M |
| Franchise Fee | $40K | $40K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.5% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | N/ANo Item 19 representation | $2.2M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | Limited data | 6.5% (61 loans) |
| Total Units | 194 | 503 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | -13 units | +3 units |
| Year Began Franchising | 2008 | 1980 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.2M – $2.3M
$794K – $2.7M
Franchise Fee
$40K
$40K
Royalty Rate
5.5%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
N/ANo Item 19 representation
$2.2M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
Limited data
6.5% (61 loans)
Total Units
194
503
Unit Growth (YoY)
-13 units
+3 units
Year Began Franchising
2008
1980
FDD Year
2025
2026