Mergers & AcquisitionsMediumUpdated•Originally published 8 October 2026•Updated 8 October 2026•
1 min read
Starbucks and Chipotle Shares Diverge on Reported $39B Takeover Interest
Key Facts
1Starbucks shares fell over 3% following a Financial Times report that the chain explored a potential takeover of Chipotle Mexican Grill.
2The potential deal value is estimated at approximately $39 billion based on Chipotle's current market capitalization.
Chipotle Mexican Grill shares jumped as much as 7% while Starbucks shares fell over 3% following a Financial Times report that the coffee chain explored a potential takeover of the restaurant group. The company reportedly worked with advisers on the deal, which is estimated to be valued at approximately $39 billion based on Chipotle's market capitalization, according to Proactive Investors.
SBUX closed at $93.58 on October 7, 2026, while CMG closed at $30.77 on the same date. The market reaction reflects investor assessment of the financial implications and scale of the potential merger, especially as Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol previously led Chipotle before joining the coffee giant.