U.S. coffee chain giant Starbucks is considering the acquisition of American Mexican food brand Chipotle, the British daily Financial Times reported on the 8th (local time).

Sources cited by the media reported that Starbucks has been working with advisors over the past few months to prepare a takeover bid for Chipotle.

According to the plan, which is still in its early stages, it reportedly includes Brian Niccol, who served as Chipotle CEO for six years before moving to Starbucks in mid-2024, leading Chipotle once again.

Chipotle's stock price has plummeted by nearly half since CEO Niccol's departure.

The U.S. restaurant industry is under pressure due to rising food prices and labor costs, as well as a decline in dining out.

Following the report, Chipotle shares rose by about 6% from the previous session on the New York Stock Exchange.

Its market capitalization stands at 39 billion dollars, equivalent to approximately 52 trillion won.

On the other hand, Starbucks shares fell by 3%.

The FT evaluated that if the deal goes through, it would be the largest-ever merger and acquisition in the restaurant sector.

The previous record was Burger King's acquisition of Canada's Tim Hortons for 11.4 billion dollars in 2014.

If the two companies combine, their combined sales will approach 50 billion dollars.

About 40% of Starbucks' 41,000 company-operated and franchised stores are located in the United States, while Chipotle has almost all of its 4,200 stores in the U.S.

The FT added that both companies either declined to comment or did not respond regarding the matter.

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