Chipotle Heads To France, Tests Asian

Chipotle Mexican Grill will open in France and is also testing a new Asian concept.

The first international Chipotle, opened in London last May, has done so well that the chain is planning to open a Paris outlet later this year. Analysts estimate the Denver-based chain could have more than 100 outlets in Europe by the end of the decade. Nevertheless, Chipotle is moving slowly into overseas market and emphasizing growth in the United States, where it has nearly 1,110 eateries. Chipotle plans to open 135 to 145 eateries this year.

Chipotle announced last fall that founder Steve Ells and a small team were developing an Asian fast-casual concept expected to debut this summer. The company has provided few details, however, saying only that it would be similar in pricing and service format to its burrito restaurants. Chipotle has registered the name “ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen” with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.