Chipotle Mexican Grill Strategic Audit: An Analysis of Chipotle Mexican Grill Business Strategy

Authors

Garrett Smith, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Karissa Hodge, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Baden Brumbaugh, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Daniel Koland, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Ellie Hurst, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Tammy Beck

Date of this Version

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Smith, G., Hodge, K., Brumbaugh, B., Koland, D., and Hurst, E. 2025. Chipotle Mexican Grill Strategic Audit: An Analysis of Chipotle Mexican Grill Business Strategy. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of
Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright Garrett Smith, Karissa Hodge, Baden Brumbaugh, Daniel Koland, and Ellie Hurst 2025.

Abstract

This report outlines a strategic audit of Chipotle Mexican Grill and its business strategy and policies. The report dives into how Chipotle creates strategic value and competes in the fast-casual food industry. Chipotle’s strategic mission, Cultivate A Better World, motivates them to focus on sustainable practices involving farming, emissions, and water stewardship. Despite facing issues involving health concerns, Chipotle has recovered and positioned itself in a strong position for the near future. With its new CEO, Scott Boatwright, Chipotle has to navigate a crowded fast casual industry that faces market pressures from consumers around healthy eating.