Eduardo Robayo: The Story of the Kokoriko Founder Who Turned Roasted Chicken into a National Business
Portafolio Journalist 03.22.2026 09:47 Updated: 03.22.2026 09:52
TL;DR
- Eduardo Robayo Ferro, founder of Kokoriko, began his career in various commercial activities before entering the food industry.
- He co-founded the poultry company AVESCO Ltda. in 1969, which led to the creation of the first Kokoriko restaurant, La Colonia, in Bogotá.
- Kokoriko expanded nationally with its first restaurant opening in Cali in 1971, under the Robayo family's control.
- The Robayo family diversified their business interests into finance (Diners Club Colombia, Banco Superior), pensions, housing, insurance, and airlines.
- In 2000, they incorporated Helados Mimo’s and formed the Conboca group, later adding Palos de Moguer and other restaurant concepts.
- In 2016, the Robayo brothers partnered with Andrés Jaramillo to form Grupo IGA, integrating several brands.
- The business faced a significant challenge in 2003 with the death of Antonio Robayo in the Club El Nogal bombing.
- Kokoriko evolved over five decades from a roasted chicken chain to a national brand with a diverse fast-food portfolio, adapting to market trends and expanding its service formats.