Is the 'Chipotle Excellence' push just a way to cut headcount?

Is it just me, or does this constant obsession with labor metrics feel like it’s leading to something? They keep putting so much pressure on the digital makelines and efficiency scores. It feels like they are squeezing every bit of productivity out of us just to make the P&L look better for the shareholders before a big pivot. I talk to a few friends in different regions and everyone says the same thing—we’re understaffed but being told to work 'smarter' instead of hiring more people. It’s physically impossible to keep up the pace they want without someone eventually hitting a wall. I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if they announce some massive overhead reduction soon to show 'margin expansion' to the street. Management keeps talking about growth, but the day-to-day reality is all about austerity. If you’re a mid-level manager or support staff, stay frosty. When they start harping this hard on specific efficiency KPIs without increasing the budget, the next logical step is usually cutting the people who aren't 'hitting their numbers.' Stay safe out there.