Chipotle (NYSE:CMG) has been a weak performer, down 13% since purchase through the end of 2016. We knew Chipotle faced a long road to recovery after several outbreaks of food-borne illnesses frightened customers away, but we were attracted by the enormous potential of the business, which could grow for many years and generate high returns if the executive team manages the recovery adeptly. Chipotle is making changes to management and its board of directors, including adding a director who played a key role in the turnaround at McDonald’s a decade ago. Recently reported sales figures for December showed encouraging gains in customer traffic, but we are watching carefully, as the pace of recovery thus far has fallen short of our initial expectations.
From Ruane Cunniff (Trades, Portfolio)'s Sequoia Fund 4th quarter shareholder letter.
