Chipotle is looking to make its meals a bit sweeter by experimenting with possible dessert options.
This latest offering comes as the restaurant has experienced an impressive 16% increase in sales during the first three months of 2022. During the company’s first-quarter earnings call, CEO Brian Niccol revealed that sweet goods might be coming to the restaurants, though he didn’t elaborate on potential options.
“We are constantly exploring new menu innovations, and dessert is an area where we see opportunity,” said Chipotle Chief Marketing Officer Chris Brandt.
In 2017, Chipotle tested out buñuelos, a crispy, cinnamony dessert with a chocolate dipping sauce. They introduced a Mexican chocolate shake at its test kitchen in New York the following year, though customers did not appear too fond of the dairy beverage. Churros, a stronger, more well-known option, was also in the works but fell to the waist side.
While a tasty treat choice could further drive sales, the company is taking its time with delivering a new product.
“We aren’t ready to push anything through the official stage-gate process yet,” Brandt added.
No matter when Chipotle’s desserts arrive, it will align the chain with some of fast food’s biggest brands, which already have sugary offerings. Mcdonald’s have chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, and milkshakes, while Chic-fil-A offers brownies, cookies, ice cream, and fruit cups for a healthier treat option.
