Eduardo Robayo, a Colombian businessman whose vision transformed the nation’s dining habits and built one of its most recognizable restaurant chains, died on March 21, 2026, at the age of 91. His name is inextricably linked to the popularization of chicken consumption in Colombia and the success of Kokoriko, a brand that became a staple for families across the country. Robayo’s entrepreneurial journey, beginning long before the fast-casual dining boom, reflects a broader shift in Colombian society and its relationship with food.
News of Robayo’s passing quickly spread through Colombian business and cultural circles. Fernán Martínez, a manager for several prominent artists, shared the news on social media, expressing condolences to Robayo’s children – Claudia, Eduardo, and Carolina – his wife, Alba Lucía Gómez, and the wider family. Former Bogotá Mayor Enrique Peñalosa remembered Robayo as “the creator of Kokoriko, a great businessman, a nation-builder, and a better human being.” The cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Robayo’s impact is best understood within the context of Colombia in the 1960s and 70s. At that time, chicken was not a common protein source for many Colombians. It was considered a relative luxury. Robayo, recognizing a gap in the market, envisioned making affordable, quality chicken accessible to a wider population. This vision, coupled with a rapidly urbanizing country and a growing middle class, laid the foundation for Kokoriko’s success. According to data from the Colombian National Statistics Department (DANE), per capita chicken consumption increased by over 300% between 1970 and 2000, a period coinciding with Kokoriko’s expansion.
From Jewelry to Chicken: The Early Years
Before entering the poultry industry, Robayo established himself as a merchant and jeweler. His foray into chicken farming began in the late 1960s, partnering with Noé Cardona and Emilio Jordán to create Avesco. Avesco served as the foundational platform for developing his business model, focusing on vertically integrated production to control quality and costs. In 1971, he opened the first Kokoriko restaurant in Cali, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene. This timing was crucial, as the concept of fast-food chains was just beginning to capture root in Colombia. The initial investment in the first Kokoriko location was approximately 50,000 Colombian pesos, equivalent to roughly $2,500 USD at the time, according to historical exchange rates.
Kokoriko’s early success wasn’t simply about offering chicken. It was about creating an experience. The restaurants were designed to be family-friendly, offering a clean and welcoming atmosphere. The focus on consistently high-quality, flavorful chicken, prepared with a distinctive seasoning, quickly built a loyal customer base. The brand’s signature “Kokoriko” sound – a rooster’s crow – became instantly recognizable, further solidifying its identity.
Riding the Wave of Change
As Colombia underwent significant social and economic changes in the following decades, Kokoriko grew alongside them. The rapid urbanization of the country, coupled with a burgeoning middle class and a shift towards more people dining outside the home, created a fertile environment for the chain’s expansion. Kokoriko wasn’t just responding to these changes; it was actively shaping them, becoming a symbol of modern Colombian life. The chain expanded beyond Cali, opening locations in major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Barranquilla.
The Robayo family’s business acumen extended beyond the restaurant industry. In subsequent decades, they diversified their investments into sectors such as housing, pension funds, and financial services, mirroring a common trend among Colombian entrepreneurial groups of the era. This diversification provided stability and allowed the family to weather economic fluctuations. According to a 1998 report by *Portafolio*, a leading Colombian business newspaper (Portafolio), the Robayo family’s holdings at the time represented approximately 0.5% of Colombia’s total private investment.
A Change in Ownership, A Lasting Legacy
A significant shift occurred in 2017 when control of Kokoriko passed to Inmaculada Guadalupe y Amigos (IGA), a group that consolidated its stake in several restaurant chains. While the ownership structure changed, the core identity of Kokoriko – the brand forged over decades under Eduardo Robayo’s leadership – has remained remarkably consistent. IGA has continued to invest in the brand, modernizing operations while preserving the elements that made Kokoriko a beloved Colombian institution.
Kokoriko currently operates over 150 restaurants throughout Colombia and internationally, employing over 5,000 people. The chain continues to innovate, introducing new menu items and adapting to changing consumer preferences, but always staying true to its roots. The company reported annual revenues of approximately $120 million USD in 2024, according to financial statements filed with the Colombian Chamber of Commerce.
Robayo’s Influence Beyond the Plate
Eduardo Robayo’s legacy extends beyond the success of Kokoriko. He was known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting educational initiatives and community development projects in Cali and throughout Colombia. He was a quiet benefactor, preferring to let his actions speak for themselves. His commitment to creating jobs and providing opportunities for economic advancement had a lasting impact on countless families.
The story of Eduardo Robayo is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of a nation. He didn’t just sell chicken; he helped shape a culture, transforming a once-occasional meal into a Colombian staple. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to quality will continue to inspire generations of Colombian business leaders.
IGA has announced plans to honor Robayo’s memory with a series of initiatives, including a scholarship fund for culinary students in Cali. Further details regarding these initiatives are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Those wishing to share their memories of Eduardo Robayo are encouraged to visit Kokoriko’s official social media channels.
