How to Open a Chipotle Franchise

A lot of people now are considering other options that are healthy in the fast-food industry.

Mexican foods are known to be healthy and at the same time very fast to prepare. Chipotle is a restaurant that specializes in Mexican foods.

Choosing the right type of business can be very difficult and confusing at times, especially when you do not know which field you will set in. Today, a lot of customers are now switching from eating unhealthy fast foods to healthy ones. Chipotle Grill is a fast-food type of business that serves rather healthy foods but provides a restaurant-like service, environment, and food quality.

In purchasing a franchise, it is very important that you know the company’s history first to be able to determine what type of people you will be doing business with. It was in the year 1993 that Steve Ells opened the first-ever Chipotle Mexican Grill. He then opened a second branch in Colorado only after two years he opened his first branch. And in 1998, Chipotle expanded its business in Kansas City. Today, there are over 830 Chipotle Mexican Grill franchises all over the country.

After knowing the history of your chosen franchise company, the next thing you should do is to know your net worth. Your net worth will be a major factor in whether you can afford to purchase a Chipotle franchise or not.

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One way of determining your net worth is by preparing a Statement of Financial Position or commonly known as the Balance Sheet. This statement includes your asset, liabilities, and equities. In order to determine your net worth, you should subtract the total amount of what you owe from the total amount of what you own (Assets minus Liabilities). Once you have done this, you will now be able to determine your net worth.

After determining your net worth, you should now be able to identify whether you can fund a Chipotle franchise all by yourself or not. In the event that you do not have enough amount of money needed to start your own Chipotle franchise, you can seek help from lending companies by borrowing money from them. Another way to have enough money is by borrowing from the banks. One thing you should consider though in borrowing money is to only borrow the necessary amount in order for you to start your business. You should not be borrowing the amount of money that is beyond your paying capabilities because you do not want to end up being in debt while doing your business.

Finally, after studying the business and determining your funding options, it is now time to actually purchase your Chipotle franchise. But the franchising cost is privately determined by the corporation on an individual basis.

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181 Comments

  • Anthony Austin said on February 19, 2011
    Atlanta Georgia, Kennesaw G.A 30152. I was considering opening up a Chipotle Restaurant. How much would it cost me? Thank-you, Anthony Austin
  • Lesley Palmer said on March 6, 2011
    Route 1 is very limited with food options near Marumsco Plaza but has a lot of coming and going traffic. Ideal for commuters coming home in the evening and people who live and work close to Rt. 1 in Woodbridge, VA 22191. There was a Five Guys restaurant in the location that I am thinking of which recently closed it doors to customers in November and has been vacant ever since. It also has a drive through which would be an ideal addition to the fast food quick service approach. A drive through Chipotle, doesn't get any better than that! Lesley Palmer, (571) 379-0348
  • kyle Jones said on March 11, 2011
    you can not open your own chipotle because this company does not franchise it is a corporate company to whom all rights are owned by steve ells founder and owner of all chipotles
  • MARCOS BALTIERRA said on March 16, 2011
    I am an executive chef, that has been in the food and beverage industry for the past 18 years. I live in Greeley,Co. and i would like to open my own Chipotle, or help you to open a new Chipotle in west greeley. What would it take for you or us to build a new restaurant in this well populated location. Please get back to me with your thoughts about this proposal. sincerly, Marcos Baltierra (970)576-1055
  • Lisa Croskey said on April 5, 2011
    I would like to open a Chipotle Mexican Bar and Grill in Detroit, Michigan in the downtown area or in the New Center area. This will be a great business opportunity for myself and a great investment and its healthy eating for the community.
  • chang yang said on May 5, 2011
    I would like to open chipotle mexican grill in Hawaii, honolulu or new center area.please tell me about. thank
  • Leonah Sharpe said on June 9, 2011
    I would love to open up a Chipotle Mexican Grill in the Dulles Town Center Va, area off of rt28. It would be my dream and an opportunity for me to be able to invest as well as my passion of cooking food. What process do i go through to complete my dream?
  • Ryan Sonneson said on June 27, 2011
    A Chipotle would be the best thing to come to our town of Cambridge, MN. It's a growing community with a lot of market potential. Right now we have to drive at least 45 minutes to the nearest location. Having one built here would truly be a benefit to everyone that lives here!!!
  • Chid said on August 19, 2011
    I would love to open up a Chipotle Mexican Grill in Banglore city, India.
  • dan larumbe said on September 27, 2011
    I would like to open a Chipotle restaurant in MN, twin cities area
  • ismail said on October 2, 2011
    i would like to open chipotle mexican grill in morocco.please tell me about.thank you
  • nihad hadzovic said on October 10, 2011
    i would like to open chipotle restaurant in trenton nj please tell me what is my next step thanks
  • Ayana Grundy said on October 11, 2011
    I'm located in Jackson Ms. and will like to open a chipotle. I need to know what steps I need to take ???
  • Winston k said on October 13, 2011
    I would like to open a chipotle restaurant in Arlington hts Tryingbto figure the start up cost
  • Michelle Ruegg said on October 26, 2011
    I am interested in also opening a Chipotle Restaurant in Hartville Ohio. My son is a vegetarian and he is also very interested in the entire philosophy of this restaurant. He is a strong believer in your Food with Integrity concept. Thanks.
  • Lamees said on November 20, 2011
    I want to open a Chipotle in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • David Altieri said on November 28, 2011
    I am a college student at the West Chester University. I currently live in West Chester PA, and i think me and a few friends could bring chipotle to this university and make a huge hit. There are a few places to eat around campus but none that appealing so i thought it would be an amazing life changing opportunity to bring chipotle to our school.
  • Shane Ferris said on December 6, 2011
    I am a college student in Circleville, Ohio.. We have a town with restaurants but the closest place to us is 20 minutes down the road to get Chipotle..I have been in Food for 6 years now and think that just by the way people talk in this town and at college that a Chipotle would make this town so much better. And be a big success..
  • Ethan said on December 12, 2011
    Chipotle locations are 100% corporate owned the company does not franchise. This may change at some point in the future but currently this is not an option.
  • dakshesh patel said on December 16, 2011
    i want to open chipotle restorent in india at our resort,its five star resort in gujarat india,also would like to open 5 chipotle in five metro city in india,please reply if it possible or what
  • HB said on January 15, 2012
    I am a German grad. student and have a perfect location for a new Chipotle (in Florida). How does this non-franchise company work? What are the next steps? Thanks in advance!
  • Joni Adair said on February 10, 2012
    Hi, I love to open a Chipotle in Vacaville CA. What are the next steps? Looking forward to hearing from you soon!
  • Gaurav Walia said on February 19, 2012
    Hi, I am in India and pursuing my Bachelor in Business administration from a well reputed University..I went to Virginia in 2010 where i tried Chipotle mexican grill for the first time and since then I've been thinking to open a Chipotle restaurant in Delhi, India. I believe it can be a good business opportunity here in India. Kindly let me know if you could help me in any way... Thanks
  • jerry agnello said on February 20, 2012
    My family and i really like chipotle, would love to open up chipotle in the buffalo n.y. area,would like to know more info,thankyou
  • victor ochieng said on February 22, 2012
    i am in minnesota twin cities and would like to open chipotle i need advice
  • Santiago Zuniga said on February 27, 2012
    I currently have one business which is a carlot, I want to change my direction.I live in Mcallen, TX about 7 miles from the Mexican border. My area is a thriving city with businesses popping out of nowhere. This would be a great opportunity right now. Currently Freebirds just opened about 6 monts ago...similar to Chipotle but not as close to taste and quality! The nearest one is in San Antonio. 4hrs away. I am 956-445-4924.
  • Morgan Giordano said on March 3, 2012
    Can someone PLEASE open up a Chipotle in Hamilton, NY. That is where Colgate University is and we would give you so much business. At least one fraternity goes to syracuse every week already to order sixty burritos and Hamilton College is near by us and they would benefit from having a chipotle in our town as well. It is a guaranteed success! plus there is empty store space downtown already and rent is cheap PLEASE COME TO COLGATE
  • Simon Vincze said on March 6, 2012
    I would like to open chepolte in Europe . If someone can give any help Iĺl appreciate it.
  • Kishan Tej said on April 7, 2012
    Hi, I am a Masters student at the Rutgers University and I'm planning to open a Chipotle in Hyderabad India a place known for rich variety of ethnic cuisines.The place is also known as the software hub of the country,so it would be a great investment.Please get back to me with more info if you like the proposal.
  • vasanthi said on April 9, 2012
    Hi, i would like to open a chipotle restaurant in Chennai, India. I would like to know the details for that.
  • Florence Snowden said on April 9, 2012
    I live in Laurel, Maryland USA ,I am interested in opening a Chipotle ,however there is one already located in Laurel,MD ..I would like to know how much it would cost to open a location in Hyattsville, MD ( Prince Georges County, ) area which has a large diverse population. ? Please advise as soon a possible. I am very interested.
  • lopezj44 said on May 27, 2012
    I would like to open a chipotle franchise @ Ponce Puerto Rico. I try it in my last vacation to Downtown Manhattan and I never find the same quality, service and flavor in any other place. Please, help me with the steps to follow and the initial investment.
  • Deepal said on May 28, 2012
    Hi, I would like to know the details to open a chipotle restaurant in Mumbai, India. However I am aware that avacado and lettuce is not available easily and is very expensive. Also more vegetarian options need to be included. Still do you think it is feasible to open it here? Thanks Deepal
  • priti patel said on June 11, 2012
    Hi, I would like to know the details to open a chipotle restaurant in chiago, ill.close to 59 & 64 corner
  • Rohan S said on June 25, 2012
    Hi! I am interested in opening a chipotle restaurant in Mumbai, India. Please guide me as to the steps required to get the chipotle franchise. Thanks
  • JOSETTE said on July 3, 2012
    Woodbridge, VA... What are the guidelines or requirements to open a chipotle franchise? Thank you
  • JCastro said on July 4, 2012
    I am a store owner planning on selling out and I love the idea of opening up a Chipotle in Danville, VA. please let me know what is needed to advance in this great opportunity.
  • Laroi Jones said on July 6, 2012
    Interested in franchise opportunity in Savannah,GA.
  • akhil said on July 8, 2012
    hi i like to open chipotle in chicago addison il what do i have to do and how much it cost to build one let me know please thanks
  • prasun shah said on July 8, 2012
    i am from India and would like to introduce chipotle restaurants in India. I wish to avail master franchise for your brand and develop business in India. Can i have the lead for the same and the procedure that need to be done and your interest for coming in to Indian market. thanks
  • Alla said on July 11, 2012
    Hi I would like to open chipotle restaurant in north Hollywood CA. Please give me an advice and how to start. Thank you
  • Ashley said on July 11, 2012
    Clarksville, TN near the Ft. Campbell area. My husband and I are interested in opening up a Chipotle to near the military base to give the soldiers a healthy fast food place to eat at. Can you give me information on what is needed to start the process and what are the steps to finishing it. Thank you.
  • Aab said on July 16, 2012
    I am sure that a Chipotle in lake Jackson will bring in a lot of business and so I would like to open one. Can someone please suggest how to move forward with this. Thanks
  • Addy said on July 20, 2012
    I would like to open a Chipotle restaurant in Biloxi, Mississippi within a LARGE mall strip called the Promenade.
  • Jason Weeks said on July 21, 2012
    I currently live in Shewsbury, PA and I am interested in starting my own Chipolte franchise. How much does it cost to start up The business?
  • Anthony Tejada said on July 30, 2012
    I am very interested in opening up a chipotle restaurant in Ocala, Fl. I am looking for information on how much it cost to start one up. Thanks
  • Robert Applegate beginner adviser said on August 1, 2012
    Hello everyone, I love Chipotle and I also would love to open one but you cannot, they do not franchise their model, unfortunately! But you are in luck, I am a franchise coach/consultant and represent many other models that could also reach your goals, needs and expectations. If anyone would like to discuss some of your options please let me know. You can contact me at www.theesource.com/rapplegate. I have a phone number on there as well. There are also no charges to work with our team.

    rapplegate@esourcecoach.com || Franchise Consultant

  • harshidatrivedi said on August 9, 2012
    I want to open business in India all type franchise expect chipotle all business. doing very well
  • Divesh Gupta said on September 3, 2012
    I want to open Chipotle in India, Maharashtra , Mumbai. Please let me know the further procedure to commence this venture. Contact detail cell:- 613-265-4586
  • Guru said on September 13, 2012
    Interested to open in southern Metro In india...Pls clarify 9500099033
  • Kym Freeman said on September 23, 2012
    I would love to open a Chipotle in Opelika, Alabama (Tigertown). There are no restaurants that are similar to this "fresh food" taste and quality this restaurant brings! I would like to know the process to which I would need to go through to either build or have the corporate office build me one. This is a large populated area. You can reach me at the above email address. I hope and pray to have this opportunity!--Sincerely.
  • Samclarkdirect.com said on October 1, 2012
    Chipotle is a great business to start. The food is great and it is a popular chain everywhere.
  • Aaron Scibona said on October 4, 2012
    I am interested in opening a Chipotle in Freeport, IL
  • George Moffatt said on October 17, 2012
    I want to open chipotle in Richmond Tx. Please let me know the necessary procedure to start this. Thank you. You can reach me at 713-498-2925
  • Erik Johnson said on October 20, 2012
    I think a chipotle opened up in morgantown wv would break records. Its a big college town a kids would love it. The closes one is at least 45 mins away. I am trying to find out the steps to opening one up. I have worked at one in northen va.
  • Terry said on October 28, 2012
    I live in a college town (Shepherdstown, WV) and retired military interested in more information about opening a Chipotle Restaurant close to the University. Please, submit any information.
  • Daisy said on November 11, 2012
    I am interested in opening up a Chipotle in Oahu Hawaii. this would be a great place. Please email me more information. thanks!
  • samantha said on November 17, 2012
    Hi, i am from singapore, Please email me more info if Chipotle still open to individual franchisee. Thank you
  • amit patel said on November 27, 2012
    I am still unable to figure out the reasons behind Chipotle not entering Asian market. It is only a matter of time when small individual mexican foodlets start flourishing in these countries, esp in India. Its high time Chipotle thinks about India as one of the options to expand globally. I would like to open up one such mexican grill myself by a different brand obviously, soon enough if Chipotle doesnt allow Franchise. Moreover the idea of company owned stores in India seems a bit too far fetched to me. Amit Patel, Surat, INDIA
  • Doug Kim said on November 27, 2012
    I would like to open up chipotle such as paducah Kentuky , or memphis tennesee. If there is chance to open up abroad, I really like to open up in Korea especially in front of college location .
  • Justin said on November 27, 2012
    Would like to open a chipotle in a foreign country. How does this work, as I understand it is corporate/family owned and chipotle does not franchise .
  • Robert Applegate beginner adviser said on November 29, 2012
    Hello @Justin and @Doug Kim, please see my comments above on 8/1/2012. I do know that Chipotle is moving to other countries but unfortunately they are still not interested in franchising at this time. There are many other opportunities in franchising and I know many that are doing great! If anyone would like professional advice and education on franchising let me know I am here to help.

    rapplegate@esourcecoach.com || Franchise Consultant

  • Robert Applegate beginner adviser said on November 29, 2012

    @Daisy, Hawaii would be a great place to put a chipotle but as I commented earlier they do not want to franchise at this time.  I am uncertain that they ever will either but don't let that stop you from being a franchise owner of another brand!  There are many other models out there and many others that are not in the fast food area that have greater potential.  If you need help with any advice or education let me know as I am an expert in the field.

    rapplegate@esourcecoach.com || Franchise Consultant

  • Ruchi Pandeya said on November 29, 2012
    As i came to know from your previous comments one can not open Chipotle restaurant because they are not open for franchise. But my question is i am planning to open a restaurant or a fast food corner in India..so, can i use the recipe menu of burritos???
  • Desmand Chapman said on December 3, 2012
    I would like to open a Chipotle in a meterpolitain area in Columbus, Ohio. I operate my own barbershop and have to travel 5 miles at least any direction to get to a Chipotle. I can pass two Wendys, McDonalds, Pizza Hut etc, but not a Chipotle. We as a community needs a better type of food restaurant in our neighborhood, which has one of the main streets to travel in Columbus. I was looking to franchise but I see you all do not franchise. How can we save our children and community with your healthier menu. 614-432-2380
  • Joey said on December 11, 2012
    Please do consider looking into opening a Chipotle in Macclenny, Florida. I have to drive about an hour at least 3-4 times a week to eat at chipotle.
  • Jeff said on December 11, 2012
    I have the perfect building and location in Miamisburg Ohio. It was an old blockbuster store no longer in business located across the street from a krogers and a McDonalds. I currently own and operate a body shop this will be my 22nd year in business.
  • Kishore Adhikari said on December 18, 2012
    hello, am interested in launching chipotle in hyderabad, india. so can u help me better know all the details. thanks, regards.
  • VJ said on December 23, 2012
    Hi, I came from Bangkok, Thailand. I'm fan of Chipotle since I lived in California. Right now I need to go back and would like to bring my chipotle 's experience back to my hometown. I've confident that Thai people will love this brand like me.
  • Rinku Shah said on January 31, 2013
    Hi There, I am interested in opening a chipotle outlet in Mumbai, Maharashtra and Ahmedabad, Gujarat in India.I have tried Chipotle many times in Sanfrancisco, California and really loved the food and its quality .Kindly please mail me the details to make a start for Chipotle in India. Regards Rinku Shah
  • Alicia Arthur said on February 10, 2013
    I would like to open a Chipotle in Crossville, TN!
  • Poorvi said on February 13, 2013
    Hey there! I would love to open a Chipotle in Hyderabad, India. India has great potential for the consumption of Mexican food as people love it and its not widely available. Please get back to me to discuss how to take this further. Thanks! Regards Poorvi Sultania
  • aziz said on February 25, 2013
    I would like to know what are the details to get Chipotle franchise to open it in Riyadh ,Saudia Arabia .
  • daxa khatri said on March 4, 2013
    i would like to open chipotle in venutra county city ojai isa please let know thank you
  • Paul said on March 9, 2013
    Hi, I am interested to open a Chipotle in Fishkill, Hopewell Junction, area (Dutchess county, NY). I would like to know the processes how to proceed and the initial cost involved. I would appreciate your prompt reply. Regards, Paul
  • Justin said on April 1, 2013
    I am interested in opening a Chipotle in either Mount Pleasant, Michigan (right by Central Michigan University), Saginaw, Michigan (right by Saginaw Valley State University) or near the Augusta Georgia area. Any information would be greatly appreciated!
  • Saul said on April 8, 2013
    I am interested in opening a Chipotle in Virginia. What are the steps to start and approx how much do I need to start a new business?
  • Novin Jaiswal said on April 23, 2013
    Hi, I want to open an chipotle in ahmedabad metro area, gujarat, india. Please let me know the procedure/steps. Appreciate the help.
  • Devang Shah said on May 14, 2013
    Hello I would like to open a chain a chipotle restaurants across India. We have land all across Gujarat area, along with Bombay. Any advise on how to move forward is appreciated. Thank You.
  • lee kauchak said on May 28, 2013
    I would like to open a chipotle restaurant. New Albany, Indiana. Grant line road area near IUS college.
  • hatim said on June 24, 2013
    I would love to open several branches in saudi Arabia
  • faisal shaif said on July 31, 2013
    We are a group of 4 people with total net worth in excess of 15 million dollars, we are interested in taking the Chipotle franchise across the middle east, namely Saudi Arabia, Gulf Countries, Dubai, Abu Dhabi,Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and other locations, as well as Lebanon, Egypt and Morocco, with Turkey as a possibility. If at all possible, kindly reach me on my above mentioned email .
  • Mickie said on August 26, 2013
    we live in sunbury ohio- my son and I would like to open a chipotle here- there is currently a restaurant on a main drag that I believe is going up for sale- it would be a great place to start one. In our outlying area, the restaurants always have lines to the door. it is popular here in ohio. but I need some starter cash. please help
  • B. Sudheer said on October 8, 2013
    I have been to the states twice and I had food in Chipotle and I thought it was fantastic and healthy too. I would like to open a franchisee in my hometown Hyderabad,India. Please let me know how much does it cost and further info...
  • Noe Colazo said on October 24, 2013
    Hi, my name is noe Colazo and I'd like to open up and chipotle in my hometown. It's a small town but it will be a city in a couple more years. I think it would be awesome if you guys gave me the opportunity to open a chipotle out here. People out here love chipotle and they have to drive 40 min just to get chipotle. If I opened one up in San tan valley,AZ I'm pretty sure this branch would make you guys a lot of money and would even help me sustain my family. If you guys would get back to me that would be awesome, thank you.
  • Clark said on November 6, 2013
    I'm only a college student. BUT... someone needs to open a Chipotle in the Bangor/Orono, ME area. There are thousands of starving students up here. Priiiiiiime candidates for a Chipotle. I mean.. hell... I'd go at least once a week. I'm addicted.
  • chinyenum m otuya said on November 16, 2013
    i will like to open my own chipotle in maryland temple hill please tell me want to do thank you.
  • Elias Omer said on November 21, 2013
    I would like to open a chipotle franchise @ Philadelphia pa ,I try the food and I like it. I like the test & try to open one with the same quality, service and flavor in any other place. Please, help me with the steps to follow and open one
  • Olcay said on December 28, 2013
    I would like to open chipotle in Germany please let me know how much cost me thank you
  • Janice said on January 13, 2014
    Does chipotle now franchise ? Richboro pa 18954 if so what is the cost. thank you
  • Durim murati said on January 25, 2014
    I would love to open a chipotle in New York ,Brooklyn bay ridge area. please let me know if we can open one there.
  • Bria smith said on February 2, 2014
    Hello I'm interested in opening a chipotle in the atlanta area would like to what are the steps to open one and the start up cost.
  • Nicholas Guidi said on February 22, 2014
    There is a chipotle on Long Island but it is in a remote area. I would like to open a chipotle in a busy area in selden, ny. Would have enough money to renovate to your standards and get everything needed in order. Please contact me at GuidiBusiness@gmail.com. Nick Guidi
  • Michelle ane said on February 25, 2014
    Hi! I love chipotle and was hooping to open one in honolulu. May I please have done information. Thank you!
  • Nurbanu said on February 27, 2014
    Please help me in opening my own Chipotle in Atlanta Georgia 30341
  • Rakho Ha said on March 5, 2014
    Hi i live in south korea and look for a franchise that would succeed in korea. Here in korea i only see few mexican food supplier such as tacobell but they have only few stores in seoil korea. So i was thinking about what if i open a chipotle in korea? People would love chipotle. It is healthy , fast, and fresh to korean. Can it be happen to open one?
  • navin patel said on March 8, 2014
    i would like to open chipotle in alabama state so please help me or direct me what should i do to open
  • Dmitry said on March 11, 2014
    Hi, I would like to know the details to open a chipotle restaurant in Brooklyn, New-York can u help me better know all the details. thank you!
  • julio said on March 17, 2014
    Hi. I would like to know the details to open a chipotle in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Thanks.
  • Bonita Feeney said on March 19, 2014
    I live in a small town called Gloucester in Massachusetts. I have been researching and I'm really interested in furthermore expanding your franchise and establishing a more healthy, fresh, farm based restaurant in this area. Details and advice would be much appreciated!

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