El Pollo Loco

Everywhere else, comps are solidly in positive territory.

Operators are packaging catering programs in new ways to win back lost business. Individually boxed meals are seen as a safer solution as people slowly return to the office or are in need of a quick lunch to grab-and-go. Cracker Barrel, BJs and El Pollo Loco recently introduced or upgraded boxed meal catering.

The fast-casual chicken chain had to pay nearly $2 million during Q4 due to COVID-related leaves of absence and overtime pay.