Shares of Chipotle (CMG) have experienced a significant surge as the company announced its plans for a 50-to-1 stock split. In an interview with Yahoo Finance, Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol revealed key insights into the company's strategy and vision for the future.

Expansion is a major focus for Chipotle, with Niccol outlining ambitious plans to open 315 new restaurants within the next year alone. This will bring the total number of Chipotle locations across the United States to approximately 7,000. Niccol further expressed his long-term goal of reaching 7,000 restaurants, predominantly in the US, but with a potential expansion into overseas markets, such as China.

Furthermore, Chipotle is heavily investing in technology to enhance operational efficiency within its restaurants. The company has garnered attention with the introduction of Chippy the robot and its automated avocado peeler and corer. However, Niccol revealed that Chippy has been discontinued due to cleaning challenges. Instead, the focus has shifted towards testing sensor-based technology that could measure the precise amount of ingredients being used in Chipotle's bowls and burritos.

Brian Niccol's commitment to Chipotle's success is evident, as he has been leading the company for six years. Under his tenure, Chipotle's stock price has surged almost 600%, surpassing even tech industry giants like Apple and Amazon. Niccol's dedication and determination to deliver more restaurants, foster an improved company culture, and provide a great experience for customers have been instrumental in Chipotle's continued growth.

Chipotle has shown resilience even in challenging times, such as throughout the pandemic and the post-pandemic recovery. When discussing the impending wage hikes in California, Niccol acknowledged the potential impact on Chipotle and the wider restaurant industry. The rising wages in the state may require restaurant chains and franchisees to make adjustments, such as increasing prices, which could affect customer traffic.

While Chipotle navigates these challenges, analysts believe the company is positioned relatively well compared to its rivals. The expertise gained by Chipotle's executives, including Niccol's experience in the Chinese market, provides a strong foundation for future growth and adaptation in an ever-changing industry landscape.

As Chipotle continues to expand its footprint and embrace technological advancements, investors and industry observers are closely watching the company's trajectory. With Niccol's leadership and the company's proven ability to adapt and innovate, Chipotle aims to consolidate its position as a leader in the fast-casual dining sector.

Note: This article was written from the information provided in the interview with Brian Niccol conducted by Brian Sozzi, Yahoo Finance Executive Editor.