In-N-Out Burger, the iconic California fast-food chain, is consolidating its Western U.S. operations in Baldwin Park, California, while simultaneously establishing a new Eastern Territory office and expanding its restaurant presence in Franklin, Tennessee. This strategic move, which involves a $125.5 million investment in Tennessee, clarifies the company's future growth strategy rather than a full corporate relocation as some social media posts suggested. The company's Irvine, California office, which served as a headquarters for over 30 years, is slated to be phased out by 2029.
The decision marks a return to In-N-Out's origins, as Baldwin Park is where founders Harry and Esther Snyder opened the first burger stand 77 years ago. Lynsi Snyder, In-N-Out's owner and president, stated, "Some of our associates will be relocating to Tennessee, which makes it even more important to centralize our western headquarters in one location, and our company’s deepest roots are in Baldwin Park." She added that the West Coast family will be together in the place where In-N-Out Burger began.
The new 100,000-square-foot corporate office in Franklin, Tennessee, is anticipated to open around 2026 and will oversee the company's expansion into the Eastern United States. In conjunction with this new hub, In-N-Out plans to open approximately 35 new restaurants across Tennessee in the coming years, with the first locations targeting openings next year. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has publicly welcomed the company, highlighting the economic investment and job creation.
This expansion represents In-N-Out's first significant move east of Texas, signaling a deliberate and controlled growth strategy. The company emphasized that its commitment to quality and service remains paramount as it expands its footprint. The consolidation of its California operations and the establishment of an eastern corporate presence are aimed at better serving existing and future customers while maintaining the brand's foundational values.