Chipotle says no guns in its restaurants

Chipotle, the fast casual Mexican food chain, is asking customers to keep guns out of its restaurants after demonstrators brought military assault rifles and other guns into a Chipotle in Texas, according to a company statement.  

The incident caused "many of our customers anxiety and discomfort," read the statement. They are asking customers to not bring their guns unless they are authorized law enforcement personnel. 

The company says it previously complied with local laws regarding open or concealed weapons but this most recent incident has prompted them to make a change. 

"The vast majority of gun owners are responsible citizens and we appreciate them honoring this request," read the statement. "And we hope that our customers who oppose the carrying of guns in public agree with us that it is the role of elected officials and the legislative process to set policy in this area, not the role of businesses like Chipotle."

The company also added it does not want its restaurants to be used as a platform for either side of the gun debate. 

Coffee giant Starbucks made a similar request in September when CEO Howard Schultz asked customers to refrain from bringing guns into Starbucks locations. 

LATimes.com