Earnings Results: Chipotle plans to pause price hikes and lean into menu ‘hidden gems,’ as new stores and cheaper avocados boost earnings

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Executives at Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. on Tuesday said the chain plans to put a “pause” on raising prices — while still leaving the door open for more if necessary — and said new restaurant openings, falling avocado costs and efforts to strengthen employee training in its kitchens lifted first-quarter results.

Shares of Chipotle CMG jumped nearly 8% after hours on Tuesday following the results, which beat expectations.

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