In-N-Out expansion plans look toward future growth
In-N-Out Burger CEO Lynsi Snyder recently discussed the famous fast-food chain's careful approach to regional growth during an interview with television host Terry Crews, hinting that Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma could be the next states to welcome the brand. While the company continues to map out future locations, leadership remains firmly committed to maintaining its core values, fresh ingredients, and deliberate pacing rather than expanding too rapidly.
A careful approach to restaurant growth
During her conversation with Terry Crews, Lynsi Snyder emphasized that the company prioritizes operational quality over massive, uncontrolled expansion. Harry Snyder and Esther Snyder, her grandparents, co-founded the business back in 1948, starting from a modest 100-square-foot burger stand located in Baldwin Park, a suburb of Los Angeles.
The original California storefront notably served as the state's first drive-thru, featuring a two-way speaker system invented by Harry Snyder to take customer orders. Today, the chain maintains its deep roots in Southern California, where it currently operates 299 locations. Lynsi Snyder noted that the company has no intention of abandoning its home base, stating, "This is where we started, it’s where we are now and it’s where we’ll always be."
Key facts about the fast-food chain's operations
- Founded in 1948 by Harry Snyder and Esther Snyder.
- The company maintains patty-making facilities in California and Texas to supply fresh beef.
- In-N-Out does not own a microwave or a freezer, delivering all ingredients fresh to each restaurant.
- Recent expansions include Washington state opening its first restaurant in August 2025.
- Tennessee saw its first location open on Dec. 10, marking the company's easternmost presence to date with five current stores and a sixth coming soon.
- New Mexico is scheduled to receive its first restaurant in 2027, becoming the chain's 11th state.
Quality over quantity philosophy
Despite ongoing national interest, Lynsi Snyder stressed that corporate growth is handled with extreme caution to preserve the brand's reputation for cleanliness and friendly customer service. "I just want to make sure that everything is right and that our In-N-Out family is strong, and we’re retaining all those values," Lynsi Snyder explained. She added that "If I ever felt like we were slipping or losing our way, growth would look a lot different."
Reflecting on the brand's deliberate pace, she told Terry Crews, "I feel like there’s a special peace knowing that In-N-Out isn’t everywhere." Even as recent milestones bring the brand further east—such as the Tennessee debut in December and upcoming plans for New Mexico in 2027—the leadership team continues to ensure every new market meets strict freshness standards before opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What three new states did In-N-Out CEO Lynsi Snyder mention as possibilities for future expansion?
During her interview, Lynsi Snyder named Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma as potential states for future In-N-Out restaurants.
When was the original In-N-Out Burger founded?
The very first location opened in 1948 as a 100-square-foot burger stand in Baldwin Park, a suburb of Los Angeles, courtesy of co-founders Harry Snyder and Esther Snyder.
When will New Mexico get its first In-N-Out location?
New Mexico is scheduled to receive its first In-N-Out restaurant in 2027, which will make it the 11th state for the fast-food chain.