Chipotle expands into pizza

Article Excerpt

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL $515.95 (New York symbol CMG; TSINetwork Rating: Speculative) (303-595-4000; www.chipotle.com; Shares outstanding: 30.9 million; Market cap: $16.0 billion; No dividends paid) is considering expanding its new fast-casual pizza restaurant concept, which operates much like its burrito outlets— making pizza quickly, individually tailored and with higher-quality ingredients. In May 2013, Chipotle partnered with Pizzeria Locale to open an outlet in Denver. This location’s oven bakes the pizzas in less than two minutes; individual 11-inch pies cost around $6.50, and the restaurant also serves red or white Italian wine. Pizza is a fast-growing food choice, especially among younger consumers. The first Pizzeria Locale is a success, and Chipotle may add one or two more in Denver. Chipotle is still a hold. hold…