- Chipotle has reported a fourth consecutive quarter of declining customer traffic, struggling throughout 2025.
- The drop in customer numbers is attributed to consumers tightening their belts financially and the impact of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, which are altering eating habits.
- In response, Chipotle is adapting its menu with new high-protein, portion-controlled items, such as 'protein cups', to cater to these changing consumer needs.
- The company plans to focus more on affluent customers, noting that 60% of its core users earn over $100,000 annually.
- Despite the decline in footfall, Chipotle's quarterly earnings and revenue surpassed Wall Street expectations, and it plans to open 370 new stores next year, forecasting flat same-store sales for 2026.
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