Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. is a prominent name in the fast-casual dining scene, known for offering customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads. The company places a strong emphasis on using fresh, high-quality ingredients and ethical sourcing practices. Chipotle was founded in 1993 by Steve Ells in Denver, Colorado, starting as a single restaurant near the University of Denver. Ells was inspired by his culinary experiences and the vibrant taquería culture he encountered in San Francisco. The brand's early expansion was significantly boosted by an investment from McDonald's in the late 1990s, propelling Chipotle to over 500 locations by 2005. After McDonald's divested in 2006, Chipotle became entirely company-owned and went public in 2007, which further accelerated its growth both nationally and internationally.

As of November 2025, Chipotle operates over 3,300 locations across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. The company has maintained its focus on company-owned stores, choosing not to franchise. The headquarters are now situated in Newport Beach, California, a move that underscores its transformation from a regional concept to a global brand. Under the guidance of CEO Brian Niccol, Chipotle has embraced digital advancements, expanded its menu offerings, and introduced new store formats like the Chipotlane drive-thrus. These innovations cater to evolving consumer preferences and have positioned Chipotle as a leader in the fast-casual sector.

Chipotle's expansion strategy is noteworthy for its adaptability and focus on growth. The company is aggressively pursuing new opportunities in North America and select international markets, with plans to open between 285 and 315 new restaurants in 2025. A significant number of these new locations will feature the Chipotlane format, which supports drive-thru and digital order pickup. Chipotle's real estate approach is characterized by flexibility, allowing it to adapt to both freestanding and endcap locations. This strategy, combined with its commitment to sustainability and operational consistency, makes Chipotle a key player in the commercial real estate landscape, particularly in high-growth regions across the U.S., Canada, and Western Europe.