Don't panic. That's step one. Yes, the news that Chipotle is shutting its doors came as a shock to many. Despite the fast food chain's recent issues with health code violations, it seemed impossible that it would ever close. After all, other franchises have suffered worse setbacks and come through on the other side... right? The important thing is to not panic. We've got the facts about Chipotle closing, and what you'll need to know to get through this fast food fiasco.

It's Only For One Day

Before you go into complete and total crisis mode and start hoarding quesadillas, keep in mind that the shutdown is just for a single day. Chipotle will be shutting the doors to all its restaurants on Feb. 8 but, barring unforeseen circumstances, will resume business as usual the next day. In some cases, the entire closing will only last for a few short hours.

Chipotle Wants To Improve

If you're a fan of the franchise and have been following the news lately, you know Chipotle has seen better days. The fast food chain has suffered under a slew of health-related issues and crises, particularly those involving E. Coli outbreaks. In Boston, nearly 140 people were slammed with a bad case of norovirus, which was traced back to the chain restaurant. In order to prevent more people from getting sick, Chipotle executives are going to hold a major meetings with all staff members to implement healthier and safer food service methods.

Smarter Fast Food

So what kind of solutions will be used in the fight against contaminated foods? It's hard to say exactly, as Chipotle executives are being pretty quiet about the matter, but it's safe to assume that cleanliness will be a primary focus. Raw vegetables are the suspected culprits of numerous E. Coli outbreaks, leading Chipotle to change how it handles the green part of your beloved burrito. Additionally, shredded products like cheese and lettuce will be handled at an outside facility so as to more effectively find--and stop--any suspicious ingredient from making its way to your dinner.

Chipotle Wants You Back

If you've been disinclined to hit Chipotle lately due to all these health concerns (or you're just not a fan of the food), this may be the time to give it a second chance. The company is eager to win back those that have strayed from the fast food fold with stricter health guidelines, more effective safety procedures, and mostly importantly, a ton more freebies. That right, in order to appeal to wayward customers, Chipotle will be giving away twice as much free food. Although the restaurant chain has always been willing to give out freebies from time to time, executives are hoping this display of generosity will inspire confidence in customers (and raise their stock prices, which have dropped a worrying 40% since this whole crisis started).

Between the closing, overhaul of safety procedures, attention to health concerns, and free food (we can't emphasize "free" enough), it looks like Chipotle is doing everything possible to regain its footing as your favorite fast food restaurant and ensure the well-being of its customers. The question remains: will it be enough?

Tags
Food, Fast food