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Columbus, Ohio – Chipotle Mexican Grill, an American chain of fast casual restaurants specializing in tacos, burritos and bowls made with real ingredients, has announced plans to expand its operations in Franklin County, investing more than $5.5 million and creating more than 270 new jobs. Hiring for communications, development, finance, food safety, human resources, legal, marketing, facilities operations and technology positions is underway.
The company is restructuring its national corporate footprint and plans to consolidate some of its operations in New York and Colorado to one location in Franklin County, growing its presence in the Region. This strategy will enable the company to streamline operations and position itself for future growth.
“We are excited to grow our operations and strengthen our workforce in Central Ohio,” said Brian Niccol, CEO of Chipotle. “The Columbus Region offers us the right combination of a diverse talent pool and innovation to continue Chipotle’s national and global growth.”
Since its founding 25 years ago, Chipotle has grown to nearly 75,000 employees nationally, with fast casual restaurants in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and France. Recently, the company announced the relocation of its headquarters from Denver, Colorado to Newport Beach, California.
“We and our partners at Columbus 2020 are excited Chipotle plans to bring significant operations and more than 270 new jobs to the Region,” said Joe Needham, director for food and agribusiness at JobsOhio. “Chipotle is one of the most recognized brands in the country and this expansion in Ohio will play a major role in its future growth.”
The Columbus Region is home to 196 food and beverage establishments that together generate $2.2 billion in annual economic output. The Region is also a top choice for company headquarters, including fast food giants like Wendy’s and White Castle, as well as 14 Fortune 1000 companies and several Fortune 500 companies. Franklin County is home to more than 1.2 million residents, making it the most populous county in Ohio.
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About Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without added colors, flavors or other additives. Chipotle had more than 2,450 restaurants as of June 30, 2018 in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants. With more than 70,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. Steve Ells, founder and executive chairman, first opened Chipotle starting with a single restaurant in Denver, Colorado in 1993. For more information or to place an order online, visit www.chipotle.com.
About Columbus 2020
As the economic development organization for the Columbus Region, Columbus 2020’s mission is to generate opportunity and build capacity for economic growth across 11 Central Ohio counties. In 2010, hundreds of business and community leaders developed the Columbus 2020 Regional Growth Strategy, and the Columbus Region is now experiencing the strongest decade of growth in its history. Consistently named among the best economic development organizations in the country, Columbus 2020 expertly guides companies through the location decision process. Through strategic business outreach and customized research, the Columbus 2020 team leverages public, private and institutional partnerships to grow the Columbus Region’s economy and strengthen its national and international competitiveness. Funding is received from more than 300 private organizations, local governments, academic institutions and JobsOhio. Learn more at ColumbusRegion.com.
Columbus 2020 Media Contact
Amy Harman
614-225-6070
ah@columbusregion.com
Chipotle Mexican Grill Media Contact
Laurie Schalow
303-222-5912
Lschalow@chipotle.com