Fast casual chain Chipotle is set to open its first restaurant in Mexico this week, the company announced on Monday.
The store will open on Thursday in San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, part of the Monterrey metropolitan area. Chipotle said the opening is part of the Mexican food chain's previously announced partnership with restaurant group Alsea.
Thursday's opening will be the first of a larger rollout of restaurants in Mexico, including an expansion into Mexico City in 2027, according to Chipotle.
"We are entering Mexico with deep respect for the country's culinary heritage and a commitment to delivering the Chipotle experience with excellence," CEO Scott Boatwright said in a statement. "Our research has reinforced our belief that there is strong interest in high-quality, freshly prepared food served with the customization and convenience that Chipotle offers."
Chipotle plans to open an additional 350 to 370 new restaurants this year as it works to regain growth after a stagnant year and entice customers with new menu offerings. International expansion through partnerships is a piece of that strategy.
The company said it chose the Monterrey area because of its "strong economy, growing population and status as one of [Mexico's] leading business and innovation hubs." The new restaurant will feature the same menu as its existing U.S. locations.
Chipotle and Alsea signed the Mexico development agreement last year as the U.S. chain breaks into the market. The company currently operates more than 4,100 stores worldwide, including in countries across the Middle East and Europe.
