Core Insights - Fast-casual restaurants like Chipotle, Cava, and Sweetgreen are experiencing a decline in customer traffic, particularly among younger consumers due to economic pressures such as food inflation and job insecurity [2][3] Industry Trends - Nearly 40% of consumers perceive fast-casual dining as too expensive, which aligns with Chipotle's efforts to combat the perception of high menu prices [2] - The fast-casual segment is seeing a shift in consumer behavior, with younger diners becoming more cautious about discretionary spending, leading to fewer weekday lunch visits [3] Company Strategies - Chipotle has shifted its focus towards loyalty programs and promotions to attract customers, with two-thirds of consumers indicating that promotions influence their dining decisions [3][4] - In October, Chipotle launched a month-long rewards program and special promotions, including a Halloween offer for customers in costume, to drive traffic and engagement [5]