Hey, California, no need to worry. Your beloved In-N-Out burgers aren’t going anywhere.
The burger chain, which has its roots in California, is clarifying rumors that it’s planning to shut down all its locations in the state while expanding eastward.
During an interview for the chain’s 78th anniversary, owner Lynsi Snyder addressed these concerns. She emphasized that despite her family’s recent move to Tennessee, the business isn’t leaving California.
“This is where we started, where we are and where we will always be,” Snyder stated, reflecting on her family’s legacy with In-N-Out. While she acknowledged hearing speculation about the company leaving California, she dismissed it, claiming it would be “the dumbest business decision ever.”
However, the chain is undergoing some substantial changes. In-N-Out is preparing to establish an “eastern headquarters” in Tennessee, where it already has five locations.
Snyder hinted at future opportunities for the chain to enter new states. “We continue to grow in California and we have lots of stores slotted for future cities in California. I’m also excited to go to other states. There’s definitely some earmarked,” she mentioned.
This expansion could allow employees the chance to relocate and help with setting up new restaurants, as well as transferring to different cities. She noted, “We have our California people who are going to be here, and that’s obviously the majority, and we have a great team that’s going out there.” Plus, there might be more opportunities for people to purchase homes in new locations.
In-N-Out, which debuted in Baldwin Park in 1948, currently operates 445 restaurants across ten states, with 289 of those in California alone. Its newest location opened in Stockton recently.
While the chain is headquartered in Irvine, plans are underway to move it back to Baldwin Park by the end of 2029.
Construction is also in progress for several more In-N-Out locations throughout California, including in Palm Springs, Chino, Commerce, and South El Monte.
Despite its vast popularity—highlighted by a network of unofficial delivery services—In-N-Out’s presence remains heavily centered on the West Coast, making it a favored stop for tourists visiting California.
