Chipotle Announces Plans to Open More Than 300 New Locations

Many of the largest fast food chains in the country struggled over the last few months of 2024 and into 2025 amid the looming threat of economic instability.

"Historically, fast-food chains have fared the best during recessions as diners seeking cheap meals trade down from full-service or fast-casual eateries... But last year’s pullback in consumer spending saw fast-food eateries hit hard," per CNBC.

Beloved fast food chain Chipotle was among those that struggled, with CEO Scott Boatwright admitting the company noticed the trend beginning in February and the situation has not improved.

"While our first quarter results were impacted by several headwinds including weather and a slowdown in consumer spending, our teams continue to make significant progress improving the execution in our restaurants, innovating our back of house, and building Chipotle into a global iconic brand," he said in a statement during its quarterly earnings release.

"I am confident that we have a strong plan to return to positive transaction comps by the second half of the year, and during these uncertain times, we will continue to invest in the things that make Chipotle a special brand – our people, culinary, value proposition, innovation and growth."

While the company revealed some bad news at the time, that won't slow the fast food chain's expansion across the United States and Canada. In the release, Chipotle revealed it plans to open between 315-345 restaurants with over 80% having a Chipotlane.

Chipotle told USA Today on May 9 the company plans to open 15 to 20 out of the more than 300 restaurants in Canada.

As of April 23, the company had already added 57 restaurants with 48 locations including a Chipotlane.

Related: 'Beloved' Restaurant Chain Back After Going Bankrupt 20 Years Ago