US restaurant chain Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced strategic minority investments in two companies, Lumachain and Brassica, via its $100m Cultivate Next venture fund.
The move aligns with Chipotle's mission to foster a better world and supports its growth plans, including its aim to operate 7,000 restaurants across North America.
Lumachain, headquartered in Sydney, Australia, is on a mission to revolutionise food production.
The female-founded company offers a traceability solution that tracks food from its origin to the consumer, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste.
Its Computer Vision AI platform further aids in monitoring food production plant operations to improve quality, efficiency and safety.
Chipotle chief customer and technology officer Curt Garner said: "The visibility in real time and quality data analytics that Lumachain's software provides could optimise the management and quality of perishable goods for the food service industry."
Brassica, based in Columbus, Ohio, specialises in Eastern Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and operates six locations with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Its menu features items such as house-made falafel and vegan tahini chocolate chip cookies.
Chipotle chief business development officer Nate Lawton said: "Investing in emerging culinary concepts that align with Chipotle's commitment to using real, fresh ingredients and making craveable food daily is consistent with our mission to cultivate a better world.
"Funding from Cultivate Next's minority investment will help Brassica scale to open new locations and expand to new markets."
The Cultivate Next fund by Chipotle has been instrumental in supporting strategically aligned companies since its inception in 2022.
The fund's portfolio includes diverse ventures such as GreenField Robotics, Hyphen, Local Line, Meati Foods and Zero Acre Farms.
In October 2024, Chipotle Mexican Grill launched its first restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates - a significant step in the brand’s Middle East expansion.
The new restaurant, located at The Beach in Jumeirah Beach Residence, is part of a partnership with international franchise operator Alshaya Group.
