The Backstory
Since having moved to New York City, it's rather hard to think of the last time I wasn't jonesing for a Chipotle steak burrito. But these burritos certainly aren't a bargain, especially in The Big Apple. While still a college student at Yale, I remember my willingness to pay whatever cost to soothe my hunger pains. And now as a working adult in Manhattan, my cravings for Chipotle still linger, but it seems like the prices climb higher and higher everywhere I move. I was fairly certain that not everyone was paying Manhattan prices for a burrito.
The Question
What is the geographic distribution of pricing for Chipotle products in the United States?
The Data and Conclusions
Despite being a non-franchise chain, Chipotle locations are still cropping up rapidly and operating enormously profitably. In 2013, the chain generated approximately $2.17 million per location (1,595 locations) which was good for 6th amongst Fast Food and Fast Casual restaurants [QSR Magazine]. First place Chick-Fil-A generated $2.85 million per location (1,775 locations). In terms of restaurant footprint, California ranks first amongst states, and Chicago ranks first amongst cities. Interestingly, multiple cities ...
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