El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (LOCO) stock price, news, quote and history
This article provides a comprehensive overview of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (LOCO) stock, including its current price, historical performance, and key financial data. It covers company information, recent news, earnings trends, analyst insights, and valuation measures. The company operates quick-service restaurants specializing in Mexican-inspired grilled chicken in the US and licenses its brand in the Philippines.
El Pollo Loco Announces New York Expansion and Strengthens Leadership Team to Accelerate Growth
El Pollo Loco is expanding into New York with a signed lease for its first restaurant in Queens, targeted to open in mid-2027, and three development agreements for 15 restaurants over the next five years. The company also strengthened its leadership team with the appointments of Damon Thomas as Chief Operating Officer and Tara Hinkle as Chief Development Officer to support this growth. This expansion marks a significant step in El Pollo Loco's evolution into a national brand, building on recent positive same-store sales growth and improved restaurant economics.
El Pollo Loco to Open First NYC Restaurant in Queens
El Pollo Loco plans to open its first New York City restaurant in Queens by mid-2027, as part of a larger strategy to open 15 new locations in the New York area over the next five years. This expansion, coupled with strong stock performance and recent leadership changes, signals the company's commitment to national growth and brand modernization. Analysts forecast varied outcomes for LOCO stock, with some maintaining a "Neutral" rating while others suggest a "Buy."
A former Shake Shack executive joins El Pollo Loco (LOCO) as operations chief with a new pay package.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. has appointed Damon Thomas, formerly of Shake Shack Enterprises, as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective September 21, 2026. Thomas will receive an annual base salary of $425,000, a target cash bonus opportunity of 75% of his salary with a minimum of $225,000 for 2026, and a one-time equity grant valued at $500,000. He will also be eligible for annual equity awards of approximately $400,000 starting in 2027 and a $25,000 sign-on bonus, along with severance benefits.
Pumpkin churros and caramel apple coffee arrive Sept. 24 at El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco is launching three new fall-inspired, limited-time menu items starting September 24, 2026. These include the Caramel Apple ChataCoffee™, Pumpkin Pie Mini Churros, and the Red & Green Chile Cheesy Enchilada Double Chicken Bowl. Loco Rewards members will get early access to some of these items on September 22.
El Pollo Loco® Showcases Fall Flavors in Latest Menu Items
El Pollo Loco has announced a new limited-time fall menu featuring seasonal items such as Caramel Apple ChataCoffee™, Pumpkin Pie Mini Churros, and Cheesy Enchilada Double Chicken Bowls. These offerings are designed to bring bold, seasonal flavors across various menu categories and attract new customers. Loco Rewards Members will receive early access to some of the new items.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) Given Average Rating of "Moderate Buy" by Brokerages
Eight brokerages currently cover El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO), with a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" and an average 12-month price target of $16.13. The company's shares opened at $14.51, down 5.2%, and recently reported EPS of $0.30, beating estimates, though revenue of $129.57 million slightly missed forecasts. Despite a new $40 million share repurchase program, insiders have sold a significant number of shares recently.
Bank of New York Mellon Corp Invests $1.84 Million in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. $LOCO
Bank of New York Mellon Corp has acquired a new position in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) by purchasing 108,527 shares valued at approximately $1.84 million, giving it a 0.36% stake in the company. This comes as other institutional investors have also adjusted their holdings, and despite significant insider selling, with major shareholder Sardar Biglari selling over $2.28 million worth of shares. El Pollo Loco recently beat analyst EPS estimates, authorized a $40 million share buyback, and holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating among analysts.
El Pollo Loco: Taco Bell-Ification Is Working (NASDAQ:LOCO)
El Pollo Loco (LOCO) remains a Buy due to its asset-light expansion, strong unit economics, and growth beyond California, driven by franchise-led conversions. Management raised FY 2026 guidance for same-store sales and adjusted EBITDA, while reducing CapEx, supporting free cash flow. The company's valuation is attractive at 9.8x FY 2026 EV/EBITDA, despite risks like declining traffic and operational complexity.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. to Participate in Two Investor Conferences in September
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. announced its participation in two investor conferences in September: the ICR Conference on September 13th and the Jefferies Consumer Conference on September 19th. The company's President and CEO, Laurance Roberts, and Chief Financial Officer, Bernard Vergan, will present at both events.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. to Participate in Two Investor Conferences in September
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOCO) announced its participation in two investor conferences in September 2026. The company will meet with institutional investors at the Piper Sandler Growth Frontiers Conference on September 15th and the Wells Fargo Consumer & Retail Conference on September 23rd.
Two investor meetings will take El Pollo Loco to Nashville and Dana Point
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (LOCO) announced it would participate in two investor conferences in September 2026. The company will meet institutional investors at the Piper Sandler Growth Frontiers Conference in Nashville, TN, on September 15, 2026, and the Wells Fargo Consumer & Retail Conference in Dana Point, CA, on September 23, 2026. On the day the news was released, LOCO's stock closed 2.47% above its previous close.
Discipline and Rules-Based Execution in LOCO Response
This article analyzes El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: LOCO), noting weak near-term sentiment but potential long-term strength. It highlights a strong risk-reward setup and provides institutional trading strategies for various risk profiles, including position trading, momentum breakout, and risk hedging, based on AI-generated signals. The analysis includes multi-timeframe signal strengths, support, and resistance levels.
BlackRock Inc. Invests $41.72 Million in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. $LOCO
BlackRock Inc. has purchased a new stake of 2.46 million shares in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) valued at approximately $41.72 million, giving it an 8.08% ownership. Other institutional investors also modified their holdings, with institutional ownership now at 81.28%. The company has a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts, a $16.12 average price target, and recently exceeded EPS expectations while authorizing a $40 million share buyback.
246,867 Shares in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. $LOCO Bought by Empowered Funds LLC
Empowered Funds LLC recently acquired 246,867 shares of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) valued at approximately $4.19 million, increasing institutional ownership in the company to 81.28%. The acquisition comes amidst generally positive analyst sentiment, with a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating and an average price target of $16.12, though insider selling of $9.43 million has also occurred. El Pollo Loco also exceeded quarterly EPS expectations and authorized a $40 million share buyback.
Why El Pollo Loco (LOCO) is Poised to Beat Earnings Estimates Again
El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) is expected to beat its upcoming earnings estimates, continuing a trend from its previous two reports. The company has a positive Zacks Earnings ESP of +6.90% and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), which historically indicates a high probability of an earnings beat. This favorable outlook is based on recent analyst revisions reflecting bullish sentiment.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) Given Consensus Rating of "Moderate Buy" by Brokerages
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) has received a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating from brokerages, with an average 12-month price target of $16.13. The company recently exceeded EPS estimates, reporting $0.30 versus $0.28, though revenue slightly missed expectations. Despite significant insider selling, institutional investors hold a large stake, and the company has authorized a $40 million share-repurchase program.
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) Stock Up 4.2% but GF Value Says Overvalued -- GF Score: 66/100
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) saw its stock rise by 4.2% to $16.03, but GuruFocus's GF Value™ assessment indicates the stock is 37.2% overvalued with an intrinsic value of $11.68. The company has a GF Score™ of 66/100, showing strong profitability but weak growth and momentum. Insider selling of $9.6 million over the past year further suggests potential concerns among those within the company.
1,033,917 Shares in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. $LOCO Purchased by Tieton Capital Management LLC
Tieton Capital Management LLC has purchased 1,033,917 shares of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) for approximately $17.5 million, making it their third-largest holding and 5% of their portfolio. Institutional investors now own 81.28% of LOCO. The company recently reported better-than-expected earnings and authorized a $40 million share buyback, despite some insider selling.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. $LOCO Position Boosted by Assenagon Asset Management S.A.
Assenagon Asset Management S.A. significantly increased its stake in El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) by 97.4% in Q2 2026, bringing its total holdings to 301,505 shares valued at $5.1 million. This move comes as institutional investors collectively own a substantial 81.28% of the company, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $16.12. El Pollo Loco also exceeded quarterly earnings expectations and authorized a $40 million share repurchase program, despite recent insider share sales.
El Pollo Loco director Sardar Biglari sells $18,766 in LOCO shares
Sardar Biglari, a director and 10% owner of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (LOCO), sold 1,100 shares worth $18,766 on August 7, 2026, through Biglari Reinsurance Ltd. and First Guard Insurance Company. The stock has since declined by nearly 13% but is up 43% over the past six months, with InvestingPro analysis suggesting it is currently undervalued. This transaction follows recent positive Q2 earnings for El Pollo Loco, which saw increased revenue and raised full-year guidance.
El Pollo Loco director Sardar Biglari sells $18,766 in LOCO shares By Investing.com
Sardar Biglari, a director and 10% owner of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO), sold 1,100 shares of common stock totaling $18,766 on August 7, 2026, at prices between $17.05 and $17.13 per share. This transaction occurred while the stock was trading at $14.83, down nearly 13% for the week but up 43% over six months. InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is undervalued, with a P/E ratio of 12.94 and a PEG ratio of 0.35.
El Pollo Loco director Sardar Biglari sells $18,766 in LOCO shares By Investing.com
Sardar Biglari, a director and 10% owner of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc., sold 1,100 shares of common stock totaling $18,766 on August 7, 2026, at an average price of $17.06 per share. This sale comes as the stock experienced a nearly 13% decline over the past week, despite being up 43% over six months. El Pollo Loco recently reported second-quarter revenue of $129.6 million and raised its full-year guidance, with analysts like DA Davidson maintaining a "Neutral" rating but raising their price target due to strong performance.
Sardar Biglari Sells 1,100 Shares of El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO) Stock
Sardar Biglari, a major shareholder in El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO), sold 1,100 shares of the company's stock on August 7th for $17.06 per share, reducing his direct ownership by 1.64%. This recent transaction follows a series of larger sales by Biglari in recent weeks. Despite the insider selling and a slight revenue miss, El Pollo Loco announced a $40 million stock buyback program, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for the stock.
Earnings Beat: El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. Just Beat Analyst Forecasts, And Analysts Have Been Updating Their Models
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO) recently reported quarterly results, with revenues matching analyst expectations at US$130m, but impressively beating profit forecasts by 58% with US$0.43 earnings per share. Following these results, analysts have updated their models, maintaining revenue estimates for 2026 at US$504.4m but significantly increasing their EPS forecasts to US$1.12, leading to an 8.6% rise in the consensus price target to US$20.30. Despite the positive earnings surprise and raised price targets, the company's projected revenue growth of 1.4% annually is expected to be slower than the 9.5% average for similar companies in the industry.
El Pollo Loco (LOCO) Stock Price Hints At Value Or Earnings Strain
El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) experienced a 7% stock drop despite posting improved Q2 2026 earnings with increased net income and EPS. The market is weighing its 13x P/E ratio against improved trailing margins and cautious future earnings forecasts. The article explores whether this represents a value opportunity or a warning signal of future earnings pressure.
El Pollo Loco (LOCO) Stock Price Hints At Value Or Earnings Strain
El Pollo Loco's stock recently dropped 7% to US$15.16, despite the company reporting a strong Q2 2026 with net income of US$12.8m and EPS of US$0.43. The market is weighing whether its current 13x P/E, improved margins, and cautious forecasts signal a value opportunity or impending earnings pressure. The article discusses both bullish growth milestones, such as new leadership and expansion, and bearish concerns regarding the sustainability of traffic and margins.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. Stock 12‑Month Price Target Raised to $20.3, Implies 24% Upside
The 12-month price target for El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (LOCO) stock has been raised to $20.3, up from $19.3, according to five analysts. This new target suggests a potential upside of approximately 24% based on the August 6th closing price. The consensus analyst rating remains "Buy," with four "Buy" recommendations and two "Hold" recommendations among six covering analysts.
El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq: LOCO) boosts Q2 profit and cuts debt
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. reported strong financial results for Q2 2026, with total revenue increasing to $129.6 million and net income significantly rising to $12.8 million. The company also strengthened its balance sheet by reducing total debt to $30.0 million and extended its credit facility. El Pollo Loco raised certain full-year 2026 outlook metrics, driven by solid comparable restaurant sales growth and improved operational efficiency.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. Amends Its $150.0 Million Credit Facility, Extending the Term to August 4, 2031
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. has amended its $150.0 million credit facility, extending its term until August 4, 2031. This amendment comes after the company paid down an additional $4.0 million on the facility, reducing outstanding borrowings to $26.0 million as of July 29, 2026. The extension provides the company with continued financial flexibility.
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) (Q2 2026) Earnings Call Highlights: System-Wide Comps Rise 3. ...
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc. (LOCO) reported a total revenue of $129.6 million in Q2 2026, marking an increase from the previous year, driven by a 3.9% rise in system-wide same-store sales. The company saw improved restaurant contribution margin and a significant decrease in general and administrative expenses due to a legal settlement. Despite a decrease in system-wide transactions, menu innovation and digital sales growth contributed to positive financial results and an increased full-year guidance for 2026.
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc earnings beat by $0.02, revenue fell short of estimates
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (NASDAQ: LOCO) reported second-quarter EPS of $0.30, exceeding analyst estimates by $0.02. However, the company's revenue of $129.57 million fell short of the consensus estimate of $130.36 million. The stock has seen significant growth, up 16.93% in the last three months and 60.65% in the last 12 months.
El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO) Posts Quarterly Earnings Results, Beats Expectations By $0.02 EPS
El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO) reported its quarterly earnings, exceeding EPS expectations by $0.02 with $0.30, though revenue slightly missed estimates. The company showed improved operating momentum with increased same-store sales and adjusted EBITDA, leading management to raise its 2026 outlook. However, commodity costs and significant insider selling by a major shareholder remain potential risks for investors.
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc earnings beat by $0.02, revenue fell short of estimates
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (NASDAQ: LOCO) announced second-quarter EPS of $0.30, surpassing analyst estimates by $0.02. However, the company's revenue of $129.6 million fell short of the consensus estimate of $130.36 million. The stock has seen significant growth, up 16.93% in the last 3 months and 60.65% in the last 12 months, with its financial health rated as "good performance" by InvestingPro.
El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) Tops Q2 Earnings Estimates
El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) reported Q2 earnings of $0.3 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.29, but missed revenue expectations with $129.57 million against a forecast. The company has consistently beaten EPS estimates over the last four quarters, though revenue has only topped once in that period. Despite mixed estimate revisions, LOCO currently holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating it's expected to perform in line with the market.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. Reports Earnings Results for the Second Quarter and Six Months Ended July 01, 2026
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. reported strong financial results for the second quarter and six months ended July 1, 2026. The company saw an increase in revenue and net income for both periods, with diluted earnings per share significantly higher than the previous year. This positive performance is highlighted by a rise in revenue from $125.83 million to $129.57 million in Q2 and net income nearly doubling from $7.11 million to $12.81 million.
El Pollo Loco Raises 2026 Outlook After $12.8M Net Income
El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq: LOCO) announced strong second-quarter 2026 financial results, with total revenue increasing to $129.6 million and net income rising to $12.8 million, or $0.43 per diluted share. The company reported a 3.9% increase in system-wide comparable restaurant sales, driven by higher average check sizes. Following these positive results, El Pollo Loco raised its full-year 2026 outlook, expecting system-wide comparable sales growth of 3.5%–4.5% and adjusted EBITDA of $68–$70 million.
El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO) Major Shareholder Sardar Biglari Sells 80,000 Shares
Sardar Biglari, a major shareholder in El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO), sold 80,000 shares of the company's stock on August 5, 2026, for $1.35 million, reducing his stake by over 54%. This sale is part of a series of transactions by Biglari in recent weeks. The news comes as El Pollo Loco's shares rose 2.8% to $16.99 following strong quarterly earnings, a $40 million share buyback authorization, and a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts.
El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO) Major Shareholder Sardar Biglari Sells 20,000 Shares
El Pollo Loco major shareholder Sardar Biglari sold 20,000 shares of the company's stock for $334,600 on August 3rd, reducing his direct stake by over 15%. This sale is part of a series of recent disposals by Biglari, occurring while El Pollo Loco shares are near their 52-week high after exceeding earnings and revenue estimates. The company has also authorized a $40 million share-buyback program, and analysts currently have a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating with an average price target of $14.88.
El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) Releases Q2 2026 Earnings: Revenue Growth but Below Estimates
El Pollo Loco Holdings (LOCO) reported solid Q2 2026 earnings with revenue reaching $129.6 million, a 2.97% increase year-over-year, although it fell short of analyst estimates. The company saw significant improvements in profitability, with net income and diluted EPS increasing by over 79% from the previous year. Insider trading analysis shows 18 insider sales and no purchases in the last six months, while institutional investor activity was mixed with 69 adding shares and 62 decreasing positions.
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. to Announce Second Quarter 2026 Results on Thursday, August 6, 2026
El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOCO) announced it will release its second quarter 2026 financial results and host a conference call on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 4:30 PM Eastern Time. The call will feature CEO Liz Williams and CFO Ira Fils, with a press release detailing results issued shortly after market close on the same day. A replay of the conference call and a webcast archive will be available for those unable to attend live.
El Pollo Loco director Sardar Biglari sells $119,588 in shares By Investing.com
Sardar Biglari, a director and 10% owner of El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOCO), sold $119,588 worth of shares through associated entities in late July 2026. Despite these sales, Biglari continues to indirectly own a significant number of shares, and the transactions occurred after El Pollo Loco's shares had surged nearly 60% over the past year. The company recently reported strong financial results for Q1 2026, exceeding expectations, and its board authorized a $40 million stock buyback program, leading to positive analyst adjustments.
Form 4 El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc For: 31 July By Investing.com
This article reports on a Form 4 filing for El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) on July 31st. It also includes various financial market data such as indices, currencies, and commodities, along with popular news headlines related to earnings reports and market movements. The core content is the Form 4 filing information, with additional market context provided.
Form 4 El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc For: 31 July By Investing.com
This article announces the filing of a Form 4 for El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc. for transactions that occurred on July 31. A Form 4 is a document that must be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by company insiders (officers, directors, or beneficial owners of more than 10% of a company's stock) whenever they buy or sell shares of their company's stock. The article itself does not provide details of the Form 4.
Biglari, 10% owner, sells 7,157 El Pollo Loco shares worth $119,563.77
Sardar Biglari, a 10% owner of El Pollo Loco, reported small sales of common stock through Biglari Reinsurance and First Guard Insurance on July 29-30. A total of 7,157 shares were sold for approximately $119,563.77, reducing the holdings of both entities. The Lion Fund II's stake remains at 3.54 million shares.
El Pollo Loco (LOCO) 10K Form and Latest SEC Filings 2026
This article provides an overview of El Pollo Loco's (LOCO) SEC filings, highlighting that the company has submitted over 314 documents since 2017. It details the significance of various filing types, such as the 10-K for annual financial data and the Form 4 for insider ownership changes, with the most recent filing being a Form 4 on July 31, 2026. The piece emphasizes that SEC filings are crucial for investors as they offer reliable, audited financial information.
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) Valuation: PE, PB & Fair Value Analysis
This article provides a valuation analysis for El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO), noting its current valuation score of 9.05, placing it 25th in the Hotels & Entertainment Services industry. The company's P/E ratio is 16.54, which is 35.49% below its recent high and 37.74% above its recent low. Key metrics like P/B, P/S, and P/CF ratios have not yet been disclosed by the company.
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) Financial Health: Profitability & Balance Sheet Analysis
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) currently has a financial score of 8.11, ranking 36 out of 119 in the Hotels & Entertainment Services industry, indicating stable financial health and average operating efficiency. The company reported a 5.88% year-over-year increase in its latest quarterly revenue, reaching $126.18 million, and a significant 48.82% year-over-year increase in net profit. However, several key financial data points
El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO) Technical Analysis: Support, Resistance, Indicators & Moving Averages
This article provides a technical analysis of El Pollo Loco Holdings Inc (LOCO), detailing its current price momentum, support and resistance levels, and insights from various technical indicators and moving averages. The stock is currently trading between a resistance level of $17.39 and a support level of $15.46. While some indicators show neutral or buy signals, the overall
Form 144 El Pollo Loco Holdings For: 29 July By Investing.com
This article announces the filing of Form 144 for El Pollo Loco Holdings for July 29, 2026. Form 144 is a notice of the intent to sell restricted securities. The brief announcement provides no further details regarding the transaction.
