Moe's Southwest Grill vs ChipotleFranchise Comparison 2026
Moe's Southwest Grill and Chipotle represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Moe's Southwest Grill | Chipotle | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 | N/A | |
| Total Investment (Low) | $350,000 | N/A | |
| Total Investment (High) | $710,000 | N/A | |
| Cash Required | $250,000 | N/A | |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | N/A | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 3.0% | N/A | Higher |
| Estimated Revenue | $920,000 | $2.9M | -68% |
| Number of Locations | 720 | 3,500 | Fewer |
| Year Founded | 2000 | 1993 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 4 weeks | 0 weeks | Longer |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Moe's Southwest Grill
Fresh Tex-Mex with free chips and salsa. Part of Focus Brands. Strong unit economics and operational simplicity.
About Chipotle
Does not franchise. Company-owned model with focus on fresh ingredients and customization. Included for comparison only.
Investment Comparison
Chipotle requires a lower initial investment (avg N/A) compared to Moe's Southwest Grill(avg $530,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Moe's Southwest Grill may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Chipotle has lower ongoing fees (N/A total) compared to Moe's Southwest Grill(8.0% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Chipotle has a significantly larger footprint with 3,500 locations compared to Moe's Southwest Grill's 720. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Moe's Southwest Grill vs Chipotle franchise?
Moe's Southwest Grill requires an initial investment of $350,000 to $710,000, while Chipotle requires N/A to N/A. Chipotle has the lower average investment at N/A.
What are the ongoing fees for Moe's Southwest Grill vs Chipotle?
Moe's Southwest Grill charges a 5.0% royalty plus 3.0% advertising fee (8.0% total). Chipotle charges N/A royalty plus N/A advertising fee (N/A total). Chipotle has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Moe's Southwest Grill or Chipotle?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Chipotle generates $2.9M per location compared to $920,000 for Moe's Southwest Grill. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Moe's Southwest Grill have vs Chipotle?
Moe's Southwest Grill has 720 locations, while Chipotle has 3,500 locations. Chipotle has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Moe's Southwest Grill or Chipotle a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Moe's Southwest Grill and Chipotle are established QSR brands with proven models. Chipotle offers a lower entry point, while Chipotle shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
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