Chipotle Teams Up with Zipline for Revolutionary Aerial Delivery Service Called Zipotle

Introducing Zipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill has recently revealed an exciting collaboration with Zipline, the globally recognized leader in autonomous delivery systems. This partnership aims to revolutionize the food delivery landscape by enabling customers in the Dallas area to receive their digital Chipotle orders via drone, a service aptly named 'Zipotle'. Today marks the start of a unique early access program that will allow selected users to experience this innovative service firsthand.

How Zipotle Works

The Zipotle delivery system utilizes Zipline's quiet, zero-emission aircraft, referred to as Zips. These drones can swiftly deliver orders directly to customers' homes, drastically reducing delivery times and keeping food fresh as if it were just served in the restaurant.

For residents in the Rowlett area, the process is simple. By downloading the Zipline app available on both Apple and Android platforms, eligible users can place their Chipotle orders. Once the order is confirmed, it is placed into a designated 'Zipping Point', from where the Zips autonomously pick up the food for delivery.

Upon reaching the customer’s location, the drone hovers approximately 300 feet in the air while it prepares for the final drop-off. It smartly maneuvers around any obstacles and gently releases the order at the designated spot on the ground.

The first Chipotle location to offer Zipotle will be at 3109 Lakeview Pkwy, Rowlett, TX, operational seven days a week, initially from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. CT with plans to extend the hours to 10 p.m. CT. This expedited delivery service will offer the entire Chipotle menu.

Sustainable and Efficient Delivery

Zipotle is designed not just for convenience but also with sustainability in mind. Customers will enjoy timely deliveries that minimize environmental impact, aligning with Chipotle's commitment to promote a healthier world. Curt Garner, Chipotle's President, Chief Strategy and Technology Officer, emphasized that "Zipotle offers a quick and convenient delivery option, helping guests enjoy our real food from unique locations that are traditionally hard to serve, like backyards and parks.”

Zipline CEO Keller Rinaudo Cliffton echoed this sentiment, noting that the future of food delivery is rapidly approaching as domestic deliveries become as seamless as technology allows.

Zipline: A Leader in Autonomous Delivery

Zipline has made strides in the logistics industry, previously recognized for its vital role in delivering medical supplies to remote areas in Rwanda. Having completed over 1.6 million deliveries globally, Zipline boasts a fleet that has flown more than 100 million miles, which translates to extensive experience in safe and efficient delivery operations.

The drones are designed to be remarkably quiet, ensuring minimal disturbance while maintaining food temperature and quality—no matter the weather conditions. Initially, the Zipotle delivery pilots will accommodate orders weighing up to 5.5 pounds, with future plans to increase this limit to 8 pounds.

Chipotle's Commitment to Quality

Chipotle Mexican Grill continues to set itself apart as a leader in the food industry, dedicated to serving fresh, high-quality ingredients without artificial additives. As of June 30, 2025, the brand operates over 3,800 restaurants across various countries, including the U.S, Canada, and the U.K. Following its mission to provide accessible, responsibly sourced food, Chipotle embraces technological advancements to enrich customer experiences while staying true to its core values.

For more information or to place an order, customers can visit Chipotle's website. Zipline's vision to integrate autonomous deliveries with daily life, while maintaining a focus on efficiency and sustainability, marks a significant shift in how food will be delivered in the future. As this service expands, it is expected to set a new standard for fast, fresh, and eco-friendly food delivery practices.