Exterior of Chipotle Restaurant

Is Chipotle Going Out of Business? Analyzing 2025 Business Statistics and Overall Health

By Joseph Provence, a news contributor who writes about technology, business, and e-commerce.

May 1, 2025 4:30 PM MST

Rumors of Chipotle Mexican Grill shuttering its doors have circulated online, but 2025 business statistics and financial performance reveal a thriving company, dispelling bankruptcy fears and showcasing Chipotle’s strength in the fast casual dining sector.

In Q1 2025,
Chipotle reported revenue of $2.875 billion, a 6.42% year over year increase, with 2024 annual revenue reaching $11.314 billion, up 14.61% from 2023. This growth reflects robust consumer demand, with 3,700 restaurants operating globally as of December 2024, including 304 new company owned locations opened that year. Net income for Q1 2025 was $386.6 million, up from $359.3 million the prior year, and the company holds over $2 billion in cash reserves with no debt. These metrics highlight Chipotle’s financial stability and ambitious expansion.

Despite a Q1 2025 same store sales dip of 0.4%—the first since 2020 driven by a consumer spending slowdown and adverse weather, Chipotle exceeded expectations with adjusted earnings of 29 cents per share against Wall Street’s 27 cents. A 2.3% transaction drop occurred, partly due to delayed “burrito season” demand, but innovations like chipotle honey chicken spurred March sales. Chipotle’s wealthier customer base continues to drive steady traffic, with a 3.3% increase in Q3 2024, defying industry declines.

Chipotle’s operational edge lies in its “Food with Integrity” commitment to fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients and digital innovations like Chipotlanes, with over 80% of new 2025 stores featuring drive thrus. Its brand value, ranked fourth among global QSRs at $16.2 billion, and 81% U.S. brand awareness cement its market dominance. Challenges, including high sodium content, past food safety issues, and tariff-related cost increases (0.5% ongoing impact), demand ongoing attention.

Looking forward, Chipotle aims to open 315–345 new restaurants in 2025, targeting mid to high single digit same store sales growth. With strong financials, strategic expansion, and loyal customers, Chipotle is far from closing. Instead, it’s positioned for sustained growth, reinforcing its leadership in fast-casual dining.