Chipotle Plots Growth in Untapped Country

In a brand first, Chipotle Mexican Grill expects to open its doors in Mexico early next year.

“We are confident that our responsibly sourced, classically cooked real food will resonate with guests in Mexico,” says Nate Lawton, chief business development officer at Chipotle, in a release. “The country’s familiarity with our ingredients and affinity for fresh food make it an attractive growth market for our company.”

The brand is expanding in partnership with Alsea, an operator of 4,700 restaurant units—encompassing the quick service, coffee shop and full-service segments— in Latin America and Europe.

Chipotle also plans to pursue additional expansion markets in Mexico.

As of December 2024, Chipotle had over 3,700 restaurants in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Kuwait and United Arab Emirates. Long term, Chipotle aims to operate 7,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada.