Recently, and with much fanfare, Chipotle opened its first restaurant in Mexico. Perhaps not surprisingly, the opening spurred a polarizing debate and discussion about whether a U.S.-based Mexican restaurant chain would do well in the country. Years ago, Taco Bell entered the country and ultimately left in what was considered a disaster.
So what are the arguments for and against Chipotle coming to Mexico? Is it yet another unwanted assault of American culture on another country? Or is it a welcome sign of competition and choice for Mexicans?
Could it lead to lost business for local Mexican restaurants and reduced “authentic” Mexican food options? Or could it create a standard for the trifecta of affordability, service and quality that Chipotle is known for and oftentimes doesn’t exist in many restaurants today? Or perhaps it’s not that big of a deal, and people should move on?
And finally, what does the choice of a ritzy Monterrey suburb as the first restaurant location in the country tell us?
I will admit that while I have been a very frequent customer of Chipotle in the United States, I have actually eaten very few burritos here in Mexico. And the ones I have had have been very different.
In this week’s episode of Confidently Wrong, George and I talk through the arguments on each side of the debate and offer our own thoughts and opinions. Where do you stand on this issue? Check out the discussion here:
Travis Bembenek is the CEO of Mexico News Daily and has been living, working or playing in Mexico for nearly 30 years.
