Pollo Campero's Denegri

In its quest for more visibility in the US, Guatemala-based Hispanic chicken chain Pollo Campero scored big late last year when it announced an agreement with Wal-Mart to place its restaurants in the retailer’s stores beginning this year. Campero management is counting on the deal to help it achieve the goal of 500 US units by 2012. The chain currently has 37 locations in the US with plans to open an additional 30 this year. In all, Campero operates 276 units in 11 countries. Roberto Denegri, Campero USA’s president and COO, recently spoke to GlobeSt.com about the chain’s domestic plans.

GlobeSt.com: What kinds of real estate in the US do you prefer?

Denegri: We’re looking for pads in shopping centers anchored by a Wal-Mart, a SuperTarget or a Home Depot, or Lowe’s with very strong visibility and easy access in high-density areas. We’re looking for a lot of diversity, and a good component, about 20%, of Hispanic population. Ideally, we’re interested in sites that allow us to have a drive-thru. We’re also looking at end-caps and in-lines, but visibility is very high on our approach.