Chipotle Adding Drive-Thru Lanes And Another 10,000 Employees

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has curtailed dining-in at restaurants throughout the U.S. But drive-thru business is booming. That's why Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced plans to hire an additional 10,000 employees over the next few months to help support the expansion of drive-thru lanes at its restaurants. The brand says the surge in online orders has speeded up plans to add drive-thru lanes. The chain is set to open its 100th "Chipotlane" later this month at one of its Ohio restaurants. The brand says it now expects Chipotlanes to be included in more than 60% of new restaurants.

"Customers want convenience and appreciate the ability to personally retrieve their orders without leaving their car," said Scott Boatwright, Chief Restaurant Officer. "With a dedicated team and kitchen devoted to digital orders, we need to continue to grow our workforce to support the increasing demand, especially in locations featuring a Chipotlane."

Business has been good for the burrito brand with first-quarter digital sales growing more than 80% over last year.