By BOB MARTIN
Eagle Times Staff
CLAREMONT, N.H. — Economic development is the key to a thriving community, and business expansion continues on Washington Street in Claremont with the opening of the popular burrito restaurant Chipotle Mexican Grill on Wednesday.
“It’s exciting, and I know they have been working hard to get their location opened up on Washington Street,” Mayor Dale Girard said. “It’s another draw for local restaurants and I think everyone is really excited for the new addition.”
The new Chipotle is located at 384 Washington Street, and will feature the company’s signature “Chipotlane,” which is a drive-thru pick-up lane where guests can pick up digital orders without leaving their vehicle.
With the brand-new Wendy’s standing next door, Chipotle is the newest international business to land on the high-volume section of roadway on the outskirts of the city. The restaurant specializes in its burritos and bowls but also has tacos and other items.
Chipotle was started by Steve Ells, who lived in San Francisco and saw how popular taquerias were in the Mission District. This led him to moving to Denver, Colorado in 1993, and slowly expanding the business outside of the state in the years to come. Now there are more than 3,500 restaurants in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany.
Social media buzz has been high for months as the two state-of-the-art buildings were being completed next to each other, with Wendy’s being the first to open up. The hype was real straight out of the gate, with Wendy’s officials reporting record sales during the first weekend. The dining room and drive-thru line have been steadily full in the ensuing months.
Annie Gradinger, senior analyst, external communications for Chipotle, said they are always looking for communities where they can serve “responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food and establish new local partnerships.”
“The Claremont area is a great fit,” said Gradinger. “We’re pleased with the response to our existing locations in New Hampshire, and hope the community enjoys our new Claremont restaurant.”
Chipotle provides a new nationally known food option for residents and commuters alike, while also creating jobs. The restaurant is hiring for full and part-time work at Claremont and across the nation, according to information provided by Gradinger.
Each location has about 30 jobs, with the company saying that there are competitive benefits that include a crew bonus where they could make an extra month of pay; a debt-free college program and English as a second language; and access to mental health care for employees and families. Additional information can be found on their website in the “careers” section.
Employees at Chipotle get tuition assistance of 100% coverage for select degrees, or up to $5,520 per year. It also provides medical, dental and vision insurance; digital tips; paid time off; holiday closures; and free food. The company says that there are opportunities for advancement, as 80% of the company’s managers started as crew.
On indeed.com, Chipotle has the following postings:
-Full-Time Crew Member with pay of $15.50 to $16.50 per hour
-Service Leader making $18 to $20.03 per hour
-Kitchen Leader making $16.65 to $18.53 per hour
Philanthropy is a major part of the company’s vision, and it allows for Claremont residents to set up fundraisers through Chipotle to benefit local causes.
“Chipotle is proud to offer our communities the opportunity to host a fundraiser with 25% of sales given back to the established cause,” Gradinger said. “We offer an in-restaurant and / or digital option to accommodate those who prefer off-premise dining.”
Organizations who would like to set up a fundraiser can find information in the “Philanthropy” section of the Chipotle website, or by emailing [email protected].
Chipotle will be opening on Wednesday at 10:45 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. on Wednesday.
