Chipotle hires property agent to find UK restaurant sites

The US-based chain, which operates over 1,100 sites in the United States, opened its first restaurant in London’s Charing Cross last May, and has since been evaluating the UK market for further expansion.

Michael Peddar & Co is now believed to be actively searching for new sites for Chipotle, starting with four to five sites this year.

Chipotle’s European expansion​

Earlier this year, Chipotle told BigHospitality that it has explored all cities across England as potential locations for new restaurants.

“We’re in the process of looking at other sites, both in the UK and France,” said restaurateur Jacob Sumner, who heads up Chipotle’s UK business.

“We’ve literally visited every inch of England, and all the university cities. We definitely have more sites coming in the greater London area, and we’re exploring the rest of the UK.”

The chain has just signed up for its second site in London, which will be a 50-cover restaurant in Baker Street.

Further expansion in other European regions is also on the cards, including Paris and Munich.

Food culture​

Steve Ells, founder of Chipotle, said: “We think the prospects are very good for Chipotle in London and around Europe.

“The food culture in Europe is based on local, sustainable and artisanal foods, which are all core values of Chipotle and we have been instrumental in bringing this kind of thinking to fast food in the US.”

The group, which turns over around $1.8bn (£1.1bn) a year, serves burritos, burrito bowls, tacos and salads. In its home country, it has come to be known for serving fast food made from sustainably sourced ingredients, and prepared via traditional cooking methods.