Industry Veteran to Oversee Franchise Sales, Relations and Expansion for Fire-Grilled Chicken Chain
El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ: LOCO), the nation’s leading fire-grilled chicken chain, today announced the appointment of Mark A. Belanger, CFE, as Vice President, Franchise. In his new role, Belanger will oversee the company’s franchising efforts, including sales and franchisee relations.
“With a proven track record of exceeding business and financial objectives, Mark will be a valuable asset as we continue to grow and develop our franchisee system,” said Steve Sather, President and CEO of El Pollo Loco. “We are pleased to welcome Mark to the El Pollo Loco team and look forward to his contributions.”
Belanger has over 20 years of experience in successfully establishing and implementing strategic business plans, introducing new products and service initiatives, and developing policies, operations systems and procedures for leading restaurant and retail brands. Most recently, Belanger held the position of Director of Business Development at The Servicemaster Brands and previously was Vice President of Café Operations at Barnes and Noble Booksellers. Belanger has also held various positions at Dunkin’ Brands Inc. including Director of Operations, Director of Franchise Services and Director of Brand Services.
“I’m honored to join El Pollo Loco and see tremendous opportunity to build on the Company’s existing franchise platform,” said Belanger. “I look forward to fostering relationships with existing franchisees and creating new partnerships to grow the brand’s franchise presence in key markets.”
El Pollo Loco continues to seek out well qualified restaurant partners in California, Nevada, Texas and other key contiguous markets. Belanger will play a fundamental part in the company’s plans to build density in existing and new markets with its current franchise partners and the recruitment of new franchisees.
Belanger will serve as a member of the El Pollo Loco leadership team and will report directly to the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Kay Bogeajis. Belanger will be based out of the company’s Costa Mesa headquarters.
El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ: LOCO) is the nation’s leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain renowned for its masterfully citrus-marinated and fire-grilled chicken and handcrafted entrees using fresh ingredients inspired by authentic Mexican recipes. With more than 400 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah, El Pollo Loco will expand its presence in key markets through a combination of company and existing and new franchisee development. Some say the lengths we go to create fresh, delicious food are crazy. We say it’s Crazy You Can Taste. Visit us on our website at ElPolloLoco.com.