Chipotle Plans Expansion Into Mexico, Seeking Growth in Latin American Market

Chipotle Mexican Grill may be making moves to lean into its namesake nation, according to an April 21 press release issued by the restaurant chain.

After experiencing continued growth and recent success in the U.S. market and abroad, Chipotle’s leadership has evidently seen opportunity south of the border. Per the press release, Chipotle is planning to open its first restaurant in Mexico by early 2026, doing so via a partnership with Alsea.

And, as CNBC detailed, that partnership could prove fruitful: Alsea already operates Latin American and European locations for Burger King, Domino’s Pizza, and Starbucks.

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

Armando Torrado, Alsea’s CEO, was equally enthusiastic over the news of the team-up.

“We are proud to work with an iconic brand like Chipotle and help grow its international business for years to come,” Torrado said.

“Through this development agreement, we will continue to leverage our vast knowledge of the Mexican consumer and restaurant industry expertise to bring our customers the best food experiences and brands from around the world,” he added.

Chipotle’s Expansion Into Mexico Follows Trend of Openings in Canada, UK, France, and Germany

Chipotle has been steadily advancing its store count in other countries over the course of the past few years, primarily in Western nations — although it does operate three restaurants in Kuwait and two in the United Arab Emirates in a working arrangement with Alshaya Group.

And although this latest push into Mexico may prove successful — the chain indicated an intention to “begin exploring additional expansion markets in the region,” as the press release laid out — it also faces headwinds. CNBC underscored the fact that Taco Bell had twice attempted a similar expansion into the Mexican market, pulling back both times.