Chipotle Mexican GrillCMGWAITJul 17, 2024Stock price when the opinion was issued
As of Jun 05, 2026. Market Open.
More of a value play. Long track record of successfully making adjustments. Well run, lots of brand loyalty. Not the perfect environment for this type of business, but that's being reflected in the stock price (down 25-30%).
Earnings yesterday were not amazing. Same-store sales declined, yet the stock didn't really get punished. A positive, as that tells him the turnaround story is being believed. It'll take some time, but there is upside if it can execute on the turnaround. Opening new stores is a capital expenditure, but management has proven that those moves can increase ROI. No dividend.
Positioning appeals to a broad demographic, especially younger consumers who are more focused on quality and sustainability. Same-store sales expected to grow 6-7% this year. Brand still has pricing power. Store expansion is aggressive (300 stores this year) but disciplined. Efficiency is key to the story.
Not cheap, but justified. Track record of execution, clean balance sheet. Reports today after the bell, and she expects a beat. No dividend.
An analyst recently noted after doing research that the size of their burrito bowls varied by as much as 33% by location. This worries him, because if the people believe that CMG is shrinking their bowls, this is a tough stock to own. Wait until this controversy blows over. He gives CMG the benefit of the doubt.