News

Chipotle closing 5 Pizza Locale units

June 28, 2018

Chipotle’s fast casual pizza brand, Pizzeria Locale, is a casualty of the chain’s turnaround plan. In an effort to increase sales and cut costs, CEO Brian Niccol told investors Wednesday that the chain was closing up to 65 units. The closures, according to Pizzeria Locale Chef and Co-owner Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson, include five Pizzeria Locale stores in Kansas City and Cincinnati. 

"Effective June 27, we are permanently closing all locations in Cincinnati and Kansas City to better focus on growth in our hometown of Denver," Mackinnon-Patterson said in a press release. 

That leaves the pizza concept, created in 2011, in Boulder, with two locations, one each in Denver and Boulder.

Chipotle is also moving its headquarters from Colorado to California, adding a loyalty app and introducing new menu items.

"All our efforts will focus on making the brand more engaging, visible and culturally relevant while our restaurant teams are dedicated to providing an excellent guest experience with great hospitality and real food cooked to perfection," Niccol said during Wednesday's call. "Specifically, this will include three big initiatives: revamping our marketing communications and plans; leveraging our second make-line to grow digital sales and expand access; and engaging with our customers by launching a new loyalty program in 2019."