Chipotle Mexican Grillthe fast food restaurants chain, It will arrive in Mexico And it will open its first restaurant in early 2026, after signing an agreement with Alsea, the operator of establishments such as Starbucks and Domino’s.
The entry of the American company to the Mexican market includes plans to explore “additional expansion markets in the region” of Latin America, said the company based on the United States in a statement.
Chipotle currently operates more than 3,700 restaurants and plans to open between 315 and 345 units this year.
The goal, in the long term, is to operate 7,000 locations in the United States and Canada.
Currently, Chipotle has 58 units, approximately 2.5% of its restaurants, outside the United States. Of these, 58 are in Canada, 20 in the United Kingdom, six in France and two in Germany.
The company signed its first international development agreement with Alshaya Group in July 2023 to open restaurants in the Middle East. Under this association he has opened five units: three in Kuwait and two in the United Arab Emirates.
Antonio HernándezAnalyst at Actinver Casa de Bolsa, explained that, although Alsea’s business diversification is positive, there must be caution for competition.
He recalled that companies like Yum! Brands failed to establish Taco Bell In Mexico, and both the formal and informal sector could be a competitive challenge.
In addition, with an average price of $ 18 in the United States, if Chipotle maintains that range in Mexico, it would compete with high -end fast food restaurants, such as Shake Shack and casual food, instead of the QSR with average prices between 150 and 200 pesos.
“While we see with good eyes the company’s diversification strategy, with a brand that has a leadership position in the United States and a strong brand value, the familiarity of Mexico with its ingredients does not necessarily predict success,” he said.
“We are proud to collaborate with an iconic brand such as Chipotle and contribute to the growth of its international business in the coming years,” said Armando Torrado, general director of Alsea.
“Through this development agreement, we will continue to take advantage of our extensive knowledge of the Mexican consumer And our experience in the restaurant industry to offer our clients the best gastronomic experiences and brands around the world, ”he added.
Nate LawtonChipotle business development director, considered that Mexico is an attractive growth market to which it wants to take its dishes with “family” and fresh ingredients.
“We are sure that our real food of responsible and cooked origin will resonate with guests in Mexico,” said the manager.
