Fast food chain, In-N-Out, is leaving California and heading to Tennessee. On the “Relatable” podcast, she explained that the decision is tied to both personal and business challenges, as the company moves forward with its Southeastern expansion and prepares to open a new headquarters just outside Nashville.

Why She’s Leaving California

Snyder described the difficulties of raising her children and running a business in California. She acknowledged the state’s strengths, but said, “doing business is not easy here.” During the interview, she referenced COVID-era restrictions like vaccine mandates and mask rules, which she felt made things harder for business owners like herself.

Back in 2021, several In-N-Out locations were temporarily closed by health officials after the chain refused to require proof of vaccination. That moment became a flashpoint and, in hindsight, seems to have played a role in the company’s gradual pivot away from the state.

New Headquarters in Tennessee

In-N-Out's Lynsi Snyder
In-N-Out’s Lynsi Snyder.

In-N-Out plans to centralize its West Coast operations in Baldwin Park and eventually close its Irvine offices by 2030. Meanwhile, the company is building a new corporate office in Franklin, Tennessee, set to open in 2026. Snyder spoke optimistically about this shift, saying it would be a positive move for families and employees alike.

She emphasized that while many locations will remain in California, growing the brand in Tennessee offers new opportunities. At the same time, she clarified there are no immediate plans to enter markets like Florida or the broader East Coast, despite interest from fans in those regions.

Staying True to the Brand

With more than 400 restaurants across eight states, In-N-Out’s growth has been steady. Snyder said the company’s future depends on preserving what made it successful in the first place. “We don’t want to be in every state,” she said. “We don’t want to ever compromise our values and standards and the cornerstones that my grandparents laid down.”

Her message was clear: growth is welcome, but not at the cost of identity. As the brand expands its footprint, Snyder is focused on maintaining the same quality, service, and culture that have defined In-N-Out for decades.