Chipotle Mexican Grill

Leadership

Chipotle snags former Taco Bell exec as COO

Jason Kidd joins the fast-casual chain's leadership team amid other changes in the C-suite. President Jack Hartung is retiring (again), while Curt Garner and Chris Brandt expand their responsibilities.

Operations

Chipotle on sales downturn: It's not us. It's them

The slowdown in consumer spending is to blame for negative same-store sales in the first quarter for the fast-casual chain. But outside data indicates Chipotle may have a value perception problem too.

It was a tough first quarter for the fast-casual chain, which was blamed on slower consumer spending. CEO Scott Boatwright said Chipotle is doing everything right and sales will trend positive in the second half of the year.

The fast-casual burrito chain said it expects the restaurant to open early next year and that it is eyeing further expansion in the region.

The fast-casual chain said the new limited-time offer was a top performer in test markets last year.

About half of the fast-casual chain's avocados come from Mexico and sourcing has shifted to other countries. Food costs would likely increase less than 1% if tariffs are put in place.

It may not be a national holiday, but the fast-casual chain is at least giving football fans who are Rewards members a chance to win free guacamole and queso.

The fast-casual chain's kitchens haven't changed much in 30 years. But 2025 will be the year of equipment improvements to speed throughput and improve the team member experience.

The latest investments from Chipotle's Cultivate Next venture fund will support climate change-fighting acquatic plants that, among other things, cut down on the methane produced by cattle and other ruminants.

The fast-casual chain has held back on pricing in most regions while focusing on consistent portion sizes. But to address rising inflation, it raised menu prices about 2%.

  • Page 3