Chipotle optimistic about new prototype

DENVER Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. has introduced a new prototype that it said costs less to build and operate and uses less energy to maintain, while also providing the opportunity for increased sales volumes.

As part of a refresher to the Denver-based company’s more than 900-unit chain, Chipotle said Tuesday its new restaurant design has a kitchen that has been reduced in size by 25 percent and a price tag that has been cut by $25,000. It was a three-year project,