Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced the opening of its first restaurant in Asia at 423 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea, in partnership with Sangmidang Holdings (formerly SPC Group).
South Korea will serve as a reference market for Chipotle’s expansion across Asia, establishing a model for how the brand can enter new markets while maintaining its culinary and operational standards. The two companies will run Chipotle’s South Korean business through their joint venture, S&C Restaurants Holdings.
Chipotle selected South Korea for its highly engaged and discerning consumers, sophisticated restaurant culture and strong appreciation for authenticity and ingredient quality. The market provides an important opportunity to demonstrate how Chipotle’s Food with Integrity principles and culinary approach can resonate across Asia.
“Asia represents a significant growth opportunity for Chipotle, with strong demand for variety, convenience and real food prepared fresh and served fast,” said Scott Boatwright, Chief Executive Officer of Chipotle. “South Korea, in particular, is an ideal market to introduce Chipotle to the region and we see tremendous potential to grow from here. As we scale across Asia, we will remain focused on what has always differentiated Chipotle – a delicious, customisable meal at a value you can’t find anywhere else.”
