News Summary
In-N-Out Burger has announced its relocation of corporate headquarters from California to Franklin, Tennessee, driven by a better quality of life. Owner Lynsi Snyder shared plans for significant expansion in Tennessee with 35 new locations, aiming to invest in cities like Hendersonville and Murfreesboro. Despite moving, In-N-Out will continue to operate its 281 locations in California while focusing on maintaining its core values and product quality.
California – In-N-Out Burger has announced that it will relocate its corporate headquarters from California to Franklin, Tennessee. The move was revealed by Lynsi Snyder, the owner and president of the fast-food chain, during a recent podcast appearance. Snyder disclosed that she and her family will also be relocating to Tennessee, motivated by the desire for a better quality of life in the state.
This decision comes as part of the company’s expansion plans, which includes opening 35 new In-N-Out restaurant locations across Tennessee. Targeted cities for these new outlets include Hendersonville, Murfreesboro, and Lebanon, signaling a significant investment in the region.
Snyder expressed her gratitude for her upbringing in Northern California but noted the growing challenges of raising a family and operating a business in that state. In-N-Out has faced increasing difficulties in California, ranging from regulatory pressures to issues related to crime, which affected business decisions. Recently, the company made the historic choice to close a long-standing location in Oakland, grappling with security concerns.
The shift in headquarters represents more than just a logistical change; it also aligns with Snyder’s personal values and commitments. Alongside her husband, she has been involved in organizations aimed at combating human trafficking and addressing substance addiction, which reflects the company’s broader ethos influenced by its history and family-oriented roots. Founded in 1948, In-N-Out has maintained its Christian values, with biblical references present on its packaging.
In-N-Out’s political contributions have generally favored conservative initiatives, leading to significant investments against government-run healthcare and other political actions. Between 2016 and 2020, the company contributed $25,000 to $30,000 to California Republican organizations, a trend that escalated between 2021 and 2024, including a notable $12.8 million spent opposing California’s minimum wage increase from $20, demonstrating the company’s commitment to its operational preferences and business model.
The company has previously faced challenges related to labor laws, which have prompted price increases on menu items as a response to union agreements. During the COVID-19 pandemic, In-N-Out resisted vaccine mandates, resulting in the temporary closure of two locations in San Francisco due to non-compliance with city regulations. Snyder reflected on these experiences, expressing regret over not pushing harder against California’s health mandates.
Despite the headquarters relocation, In-N-Out remains committed to its California roots, operating 281 locations in the state. Snyder confirmed that although they are expanding, plans remain predominantly focused on the West Coast, with no current intentions to open locations on the East Coast, despite interest from figures like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Overall, In-N-Out currently operates approximately 400 locations across eight states, including Nevada, Arizona, Texas, Oregon, Colorado, Idaho, and Utah. The company aims to preserve the quality of its products and continue serving its loyal customer base, emphasizing the principles established by Snyder’s grandparents when they founded the business over seven decades ago.
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