Internet users have been split over Chipotle’s entry into Mexico.<\/p>\n
“Bold move selling Mexico a corporate version of Mexico,” a commenter on X said.<\/p>\n
Another X post questioned why Mexicans would pay for Chipotle when they have “perfectly fine and healthy food available to them?”<\/p>\n
“It’s like Pizza Hut [opening a] location in Napoli, makes no sense,” said another.<\/p>\n
“Next up, Panda Express opening its first mainland China location,” one post read, referring to the US chain that specialises in Chinese food.<\/p>\n
The move could be an important test for Chipotle’s plans to expand globally, one wrote, while another suggested the chain could do well as a “tourist novelty”. <\/p>\n
The company plans to open up to 370 new restaurants globally this year, including new outlets in Singapore and South Korea.<\/p>\n
Many commenters drew comparisons with other US chains like Taco Bell that have tried to break into countries that their menus took inspiration from.<\/p>\n
Taco Bell has tried and failed to establish itself in Mexico twice, despite being one of the world’s biggest fast food franchises.<\/p>\n
The chain moved out of the country in 2010 after failing to attract Mexican diners.<\/p>\n