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Chipotle Grill

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To help you prepare for the Case Analysis 3, due April 9, I'd like you to discuss Chipotle Grill as a group. Your grade will be based on demonstrating that you have read the case carefully. You will not receive credit for this discussion if you post vague, generic comments that do not reflect an understanding of the Chipotle case. If you haven't done so already, read the case before you participate in this discussion.

•Let's assume that you decide to open a Mexican fast-food restaurant and you are doing some strategic planning to determine how you will compete successfully against other restaurants. In the geographic region where your restaurant is located, you've determined that Chipotle Grill will be your biggest competitor. What does Chipotle do especially well -- i.e, core competencies -- that will make it difficult for you to compete against them? What significant challenges and obstacles might you face in competing with Chipotle? What could you do to draw customers away from Chipotle?

Chipotle Grill has focused on providing quick service without compromising on quality. By limiting their menu to specific items and being able to duplicate the same quality for each menu item over and over again, they have created more than a fast-food experience. The open-air atmosphere combined with the one-on-one service provides customers a feeling of importance when ordering. The customer has continuous input throughout the process and allows them to see their entrée being prepared. The ability to view the food preparation area has become desirable for many clean and health conscious customers. All of these features will make it difficult to compete with Chipotle Grill.

In order to successfully compete against Chipotle Grill will take some decisive research. The use of fresh quality ingredients will need to be a requirement in competing effectively. In addition, I might consider offering a breakfast menu of select items. To not become a fast-food nightmare, the menu selections should be narrow but sufficient to attract business. Creating innovative plate lunches with quick delivery for customer with limited time is another option. I know many people tend to resist buffets however a “Mexican lunch bar” may be another option to attract clientele. The trick would be to provide the same quality food using fresh ingredients. This can be accomplished by making the food in smaller amounts so that it does not sit in the warmers but can be made more frequently.

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