Chipotle Using AI To Open New Restaurants Nearly Every Day

Chipotle plans a rapid expansion of its restaurant footprint. With the help of AI, the Tex-Mex chain is opening a new location almost daily.

Chipotle’s AI hiring platform, dubbed Ava Cado, is driving the growth spurt. According to CEO Scott Boatwright, the tech is reducing hiring time by 75%.

“This not only helps us keep our restaurant staffed, but ensures we have the best talent that’s available in the industry,” Boatwright told Fortune. “If you think about the growth that’s ahead of us and the need for highly capable, purpose-driven, value-oriented individuals is more critical today than it probably ever has been for our brand.”

Ava Cado was revealed late last year. Backed by Paradox’s conversational AI platform, Ava Cado can talk with job applicants, collect basic information, answer Chipotle-specific questions, and schedule interviews for hiring managers. Candidates that are selected can be sent a job offer through the AI assistant.

AI Enhancement for Employees and Customers

Boatwright is going all-in on AI, insisting the technology improves and expands employment opportunities. The executive believes AI has a place in every business.

“We don’t look to replace the human experience, we look to remove waste and expand or enhance the team member experience,” he added. 

Chipotle is taking AI beyond just internal efficiency. It’s using the technology to better serve the customer.

Chipotle’s customer loyalty rewards system is getting some AI integration. The tech will look for opportunities to send personalized deals and discounts to customers who may need an incentive to place an order.

Currently, Chipotle has about 130,000 employees and 3,800 restaurants globally with about 3,700 of them in the U.S. alone. In 2025, the company plans to open 315 to 345 new locations. Expansion plans include new restaurants in Europe and Mexico.

Chipotle’s footprint expansion helps squash unfounded rumors of the chain’s bankruptcy.  In March, internet gossip claimed Chipotle was about to file for Chapter 11 protection. Yet, executives quickly responded, verifying that no such legal action was in the works. The spread of false information started when an online article confused Chipotle with another concept the company was testing in 2023.