When I was at StorageTek, the CEO asked me what it would take to get him on the front page of the Wall Street Journal. “Embezzle $100 million,” I joked.
Recently, Chipotle has seen a lot more coverage in the Wall Street Journal than it wants, and the hits just keep on coming. If you see Chris Arnold today, buy him a drink. He’s earned it.
Chipotle Mexican Grill has engaged its long-time regional PR partner Linhart PR for a new expanded national role: supporting Chipotle’s field marketing team and regional brand strategists in all restaurant markets nationwide. Chipotle previously worked with four regional firms.
Denver-based Chipotle, which has made a killing by being slightly ahead of trends, has introduced an iPhone app that allows customers to pre-order food.
The advertising gurus behind the Denver Egotist have had enough of Chipotle’s new “Low Roller” marketing campaign, and they are fighting back with a new Web site: Cheapotle.com.
By Chris Arnold
Spokesman, Chipotle
I predict that long-time Denver anchorman Ernie Bjorkman will take a buyout, paving the way for younger, less costly talent, and one of the city’s storied dailies will face extinction as ad revenues dwindle. That already happened? OK, look for a continuation of these story lines as traditional media continue to feel the squeeze and non-traditional gains in popularity and relevance, prompting the need for PR people to realize they are first and foremost communications counselors and content providers. Let’s act accordingly.
The Rocky Mountain News helped Chipotle celebrate its 15th anniversary this month with a lengthy feature article Saturday. Everyone outside of Denver thinks of Chipotle as an overnight success, but we know better.
PR Week takes a look at restaurants that use sampling to drive awareness and new business, and cites Chipotle as one of the most visible examples.
Chipotle spokesman Chris Arnold is dealing with an issue no public relations person wants to handle: PETA. Although Chipotle is recognized as a leader in the fight against the traditional farming practices of micro-pens, antibiotics and hormones, PETA has an issue with how the restaurant’s chickens are killed “processed.”
Chipotle has dropped Boulder-based TDA as its lead advertising agency, replacing it with New York City-based DeVito/Verdi.
The Denver Egotist has a post about how Chipotle accidentally discovered an ad campaign that has resonated well with the gay community. Never underestimate the power of being edgy … or the fight clients will give you to avoid being edgy.
Denver Public Relations Blog 