The disclosure, reported at the same time Chipotle (CMG) posted a quarterly sales drop for the fourth consecutive quarter, came with a roughly $14.5 million asset impairment charge that weighed on earnings. It also came with a concession that Chipotle said ShopHouse did not demonstrate the ability to support "an attractive unit economic model." "As a result, we have decided not to invest further in developing or growing the ShopHouse brand and will pursue strategic alternatives," Co-CEO and founder Steve Ells told investors. Big restaurant chains have for years tinkered with investments in new and emerging concepts to make a small bet on other cuisines. Chipotle is also backing a fast-casual pizza concept, called Pizzeria Local. Executives stressed that while ShopHouse wasn't a good fit strategically, it would still place bets on newer restaurant brands.