In the small Vermont town of Bennington, known for its fall foliage and relaxed vibe, Chipotle recently opened its doors, marking a significant change.

The town, with a population of 15,000 and lacking major highways or universities, now welcomes this fast-casual giant, along with a new Starbucks. Town manager Stuart Hurd celebrates the arrival, seeing it as a boost for the community amid the decline of local family-owned eateries.

This trend of big chains entering small towns reflects changing food preferences and economic shifts. Chipotle and other chains like Cava and Panda Express are targeting smaller markets, offering healthier options and filling gaps left by the pandemic's impact on local dining.

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