As one of the most popular chain restaurants in the U.S. right now, Chipotle continues to maintain a loyal fanbase of consumers across the country.
But in the immediate years ahead, it seems that the fan-favorite Mexican restaurant will finally make its long-awaited trip overseas, expanding to the Asian continent for the first time in its company’s history.
According to a new press release from the company, Chipotle is officially set to open its first locations in Asia in the immediate near future.
Working in concert with the South Korean food company SPC Group, Chipotle specifically plans to debut its first restaurant locations in South Korea and Singapore by 2026, marking a major milestone in the Mexican restaurant chain’s ongoing operations.
“With a rapidly evolving dining-out business, fueled by preferences for variety and convenience, expanding into Asia presents an incredible growth opportunity for Chipotle,” Chipotle’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott Boatwright, said of the announcement.
“Real food prepared fast is in high demand in these markets and with notable brand awareness among consumers, we see potential for strong adoption out of the gate,” Boatwright continued.
Boatwright’s sentiments were echoed by officials within the SPC Group, who expressed their excitement at the prospect of Chipotle making its long-anticipated expansion to Asia.
“Given the familiarity of this iconic brand among Koreans and Singaporeans, and their passion for exceptional culinary experiences, these two markets are ideal entry points for Chipotle in Asia,” said Heesoo Hur, Executive Vice President and owner of SPC Group.
“In addition, we have a proven track record of developing global brands and we see an opportunity for leveraging our market expertise to introduce Chipotle’s delicious, responsibly sourced food to guests across the continent who aren’t yet familiar with the concept’s real ingredients prepared fresh daily,” the Executive Vice President went on to say.
With its upcoming expansion to Asia, Chipotle will soon span three different continents, with its Asian locations joining a portfolio that includes the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany.
