Chipotle Eyes European Expansion

Denver-based Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. will debut its first European location in London next spring, on Charing Cross Road, and says it’s eyeing additional sites in Paris and Munich.

Chipotle founder's and co-chief executive Steve Ells says that London was chosen because it’s become an important city for food. “In many ways, the food culture in Europe matches our priorities much more closely than in the U.S.,” says Ells. “I think we’ll be able to source beautiful ingredients from local and sustainable sources from the time we open in the U.K., and establish sustainable supply chains elsewhere as we look at other European markets.”

The company adds that the majority of its growth through 2010 will be focused in the U.S., though it will continue to look for additional sites in London. Chipotle operates more than 900 restaurants.