Stay up to date

With an extensive portfolio across the Middle East and North Africa, Turkey and Europe, there's always something interesting happening at Alshaya.

Media

If you are a journalist and want some information about Alshaya or one of our brands, please contact our Corporate Communications team:
communications@alshaya.com

Advertising

If you want more information about advertising, please contact our Corporate Marketing team:
marketing@alshaya.com

Chipotle accelerates international expansion through first-ever development agreement with Alshaya Group

18 Jul 2023

In partnership, Chipotle will open restaurants in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates in 2024

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced it has signed its first-ever development agreement to open restaurants in the Middle East and accelerate its international expansion efforts. In partnership with leading international franchise retail operator Alshaya Group, the Company will initially open new restaurants in Dubai and Kuwait early next year before expanding further across the region.  

“Leveraging Alshaya’s market expertise will enable us to quickly gain access to these vibrant economies,” said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol. “We are excited to offer guests in the Middle East our responsibly sourced, classically-cooked real food, and look forward to furthering our purpose to cultivate a better world in this new territory.”

Chipotle Accelerates International Expansion Through First-Ever Development Agreement with Alshaya Group In Middle East

Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group said: “In announcing this exclusive partnership across the Middle East, we are proud to be Chipotle’s first and only franchise partner, as we continue to enhance our portfolio by bringing world leading brands to our customers across our markets.”   

Chipotle’s existing international portfolio of owned and operated restaurants includes 33 locations in Canada; 15 in the United Kingdom, with three more opening this summer; six locations in France; and two in Germany.  In North America, the Company currently owns and operates over 3,200 restaurants and is targeting 8 to 10% growth per year for the foreseeable future with at least 80% including a Chipotlane. Chipotle plans to open more than 255 new restaurants this year, with a long-term target of 7,000 locations in North America.

Chipotle’s newly formed business development group, led by Chief Business Development Officer Nate Lawton, is exploring opportunities for growth via outside partnerships.

Chipotle Accelerates International Expansion Through First-Ever Development Agreement with Alshaya Group In Middle East

Company overview 

Alshaya Group is a dynamic family-owned enterprise, first established in Kuwait in 1890. With a consistent record of growth and innovation, Alshaya Group is one of the world's leading brand franchise operators, offering an unparalleled choice of well-loved international brands to customers.

Alshaya Group's portfolio extends across MENA, Türkiye and Europe, with thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, as well as a growing online and digital business.

Operating in multiple sectors including Apparel, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings and Leisure & Entertainment, Alshaya Group colleagues are united by a commitment to authentically deliver great customer service and brand experiences.

Fresh, modern and relevant, Alshaya's constantly evolving portfolio reflects the choices and lifestyle of its customers. From flagship stores and restaurants in prestige malls, through to local coffee shops, drive-thrus and online, Alshaya Group brings customers the brands they love in the places they want to be. Brands such as Starbucks, H&M, Mothercare, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, P.F. Chang's, The Cheesecake Factory, The Body Shop, M.A.C, Victoria's Secret, Boots, Pottery Barn and KidZania.