Starbucks denies any plan to acquire Chipotle after speculation

Starbucks denies any plan to acquire Chipotle after speculation

Starbucks said it will not purchase Chipotle, ending recent speculation about a takeover. Earlier reports in late June said the coffee chain was consulting advisers about a possible acquisition of the fast-casual restaurant, a story that lifted Chipotle shares and weighed on Starbucks stock.

CNBC and CBS News cited a Financial Times report that sparked the market reaction, while NBC News noted both companies declined to comment. The denial was confirmed by Starbucks in statements reported by CNBC and the Seattle Times.

Actors

Starbucks Chipotle Mexican Grill Brian Niccol Matt Curtis Pete Saleh Sharon Zackfia Financial Times

Locations

Seattle, Washington, United States Newport Beach, California, United States

Articles

October 12, 2026
4 total
Starbucks denies acquisition talks with Chipotle after speculation
Starbucks denies acquisition talks with Chipotle after speculation

Fox Business • 12 Oct 20:12

Starbucks said it is not pursuing a purchase of Chipotle Mexican Grill, rejecting reports that it had explored a deal.

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Starbucks denies plans to acquire Chipotle
Starbucks denies plans to acquire Chipotle

The Seattle Times • 12 Oct 16:52

Starbucks confirmed it will not purchase Chipotle, ending recent speculation about a possible takeover.

Credibility 71% Manip. 9% Center
Starbucks denies plans to acquire Chipotle
Starbucks denies plans to acquire Chipotle

NBC News • 12 Oct 13:24

Starbucks said it is not pursuing a purchase of Chipotle Mexican Grill, after a Financial Times report suggested the coffee chain had evaluated a takeover.

Credibility 72% Manip. 8% Center
Starbucks says no plans to acquire Chipotle amid takeover rumors
Starbucks says no plans to acquire Chipotle amid takeover rumors

CNBC • 12 Oct 13:01

Starbucks denied any intention to buy Chipotle, while Chipotle's shares fell after the clarification and Starbucks' stock rose.

Credibility 73% Manip. 8% Center
October 08, 2026
4 total
Starbucks says it remains focused on turnaround amid merger speculation with Chipotle
Starbucks says it remains focused on turnaround amid merger speculation with Chipotle

NBC News • 08 Oct 21:22

Starbucks reiterated its commitment to its restructuring plan after a Financial Times report suggested it was exploring a takeover of Chipotle, while both companies declined to comment on the rumor.

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Starbucks reportedly evaluates purchase of Chipotle, boosting Chipotle stock
Starbucks reportedly evaluates purchase of Chipotle, boosting Chipotle stock

CBS News • 08 Oct 21:18

Shares of Chipotle rose up to 8% after the Financial Times reported that Starbucks has sought advice on a possible acquisition of the fast-casual chain, though no formal offer has been confirmed.

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Starbucks reportedly evaluates Chipotle acquisition amid mixed investor reactions
Starbucks reportedly evaluates Chipotle acquisition amid mixed investor reactions

CNBC • 08 Oct 18:37

Sources say Starbucks is consulting advisers about a possible purchase of Chipotle, a move that has lifted Chipotle shares and pressured Starbucks stock, while analysts assess the strategic fit and financial risks.

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Starbucks explores possible acquisition of Chipotle, reuniting former CEO with the fast-casual chain
Starbucks explores possible acquisition of Chipotle, reuniting former CEO with the fast-casual chain

The Guardian • 08 Oct 17:51

Starbucks is reportedly evaluating a takeover of Chipotle Mexican Grill, a move that would bring former Chipotle chief executive Brian Niccol back to the restaurant brand he led before joining Starbucks.

Credibility 72% Manip. 9% Center