Chipotle Mexican Grill Serves Smoking Hot Entry Point in Q2

Core Viewpoint - Chipotle Mexican Grill is facing challenges in Q2 2025 due to a post-stock split letdown, CEO transition, global macroeconomic issues, and a sluggish outlook, but maintains a strong leadership position and growth potential [1][2][8] Group 1: Financial Performance - Chipotle reported Q1 revenue of $2.9 billion, slightly below analysts' expectations, with growth driven by new store openings [4] - The company added 57 new stores in Q1, representing an 8.7% increase year-over-year, although comparable store sales declined by 0.4% due to lower transaction volume [4] - Average check increased by nearly 2%, indicating that while customer visits may be less frequent, spending per visit is higher [5] Group 2: Cost and Margin Analysis - Restaurant-level operating margin contracted by 130 basis points due to rising food and labor costs, but this was offset by reduced selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses [6] - SG&A savings helped maintain adjusted net earnings growth of 7.4% despite increased restaurant costs [7] Group 3: Future Outlook - Chipotle forecasts low single-digit growth in comparable store sales for 2025, with a high single-digit increase in store count, suggesting overall revenue and earnings growth in the low double digits by year-end [8] - The company is nearing completion of its share repurchase authorization but plans to increase it soon, supported by strong cash flow [10] - Analysts have lowered price targets for Chipotle stock, but the current market price is near a critical support level, indicating potential for a rebound [11][12] Group 4: International Expansion - Chipotle is accelerating its international expansion, having opened two licensed stores in the latest quarter and planning to enter the Mexican market by early 2026 [3] - Management views Mexico as a favorable market due to the alignment of its ingredients and cooking style with local preferences [3]