Kurt Garner revolutionized Chipotle’s digital business by replacing outdated fax orders with app-based ordering and a loyalty program, driving digital sales from $225 million in 2015 to nearly $4 billion in 2024 and significantly boosting the company’s revenue and customer engagement. His leadership also led to digitally optimized store designs and earned him industry recognition, positioning Chipotle for continued growth despite market challenges.
Kurt Garner joined Chipotle in 2015 as its first chief information officer and was surprised to discover that a significant portion of the chain’s online orders—amounting to $22.5 million in sales—were still being placed via fax machines. Customers would download a fax form from the website, fill it out, and send it to the restaurant without receiving any confirmation, and then still had to wait in line to pay. Although fax orders represented only 0.05% of Chipotle’s digital sales at the time, this outdated system highlighted the need for a comprehensive digital transformation.
Garner spearheaded a campaign to modernize Chipotle’s digital business by developing app-based ordering and a rewards-driven loyalty program. Over his decade-long tenure, first as CIO and now as president and chief strategy and technology officer, Chipotle’s digital sales surged from $225 million in 2015—just 5% of total revenue—to nearly $4 billion in 2024, accounting for over 35% of the company’s $11.3 billion revenue. This digital growth has become a major engine for the company, connecting 3,900 restaurants nationwide and engaging 20 million active rewards users.
Despite challenges such as declining foot traffic and a 48% drop in stock value in 2024, Chipotle maintains a strong financial position with no debt, thanks in large part to its digital transformation. Industry analysts credit Garner with playing a crucial role in the company’s success, and his leadership earned him a spot on Forbes’s 2025 CIO Next list, recognizing top technology executives. Garner’s compensation reflects his impact, with over $16 million in total earnings in 2024 and ownership of more than $42 million in Chipotle shares.
Chipotle has also redesigned many of its stores to prioritize digital sales, incorporating features like separate pickup lanes known as “Chipotle lanes.” These digitally optimized locations typically generate higher sales margins and returns compared to traditional stores. The company plans for over 80% of new company-owned locations to include these digital-first designs, further supporting its growth strategy centered on digital ordering and customer engagement.
Garner’s career began in 1991 at Wendy’s IT department, where his dedication and hands-on approach earned him a full-time role after volunteering to repair equipment damaged by Hurricane Andrew. He later advanced to leadership roles at Wendy’s and Starbucks, where he helped launch successful digital initiatives such as Starbucks gift cards and mobile ordering. Bringing this extensive experience to Chipotle, Garner has been instrumental in transforming the chain’s digital capabilities and positioning it for future growth in the fast-casual dining industry.