CHIPOTLE ADDS SMOKED BRISKET IN U.S. AND CANADA

Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. said on Tuesday it is adding smoked brisket to its menu in the United States and Canada after testing it last year. The new menu item, which costs US$10.25 on average as an entree in Chipotle restaurants, comes as beef prices rise. “We have established long-term relationships with certain key suppliers and therefore, been able to secure acceptable pricing for our initiatives,” said Carlos Londono, the company’s head of supply chain. Beef and veal prices were up 48 per cent in August versus January, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The smoked brisket will be available to Chipotle U.S. rewards members on Tuesday and Wednesday. It will be available to all customers in the United States and Canada on Thursday.