Chipotle To Close Up To 65 Restaurants; Are IL Locations At Risk?

Chipotle will be adding new snack items to its menu as the Mexican fast food chain tries to reinvigorate its brand. Part of that revitalization, however, will include closing some of the company's underperforming locations.

During an investors call Wednesday, new Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol said the chain will be closing between 55 and 65 of its underperforming restaurants, according to the Thrillist. It's not known if any the company's Illinois locations will be affected, and half of the closings will happen in July.

Chipotle has 2,400 locations around the world, and the stores it's shuttering represent less than 3 percent of the company's U.S. presence.

When it comes to the positive efforts Chipotle is making to improve its image, which took a hit in recent years because of food safety issues, the chain will introduce a new loyalty program and a "happy hour" during non-peak hours that will feature $2 tacos. Customers also will be able to order for delivery from some locations thanks to its app.

More via the Thrillist

Photo via Patch archive