In-N-Out CEO speaks out as rumors swirl beloved burger chain is ditching California

California’s beloved burger chain isn’t going anywhere — no matter where its billionaire boss decides to live.

In-N-Out CEO Lynsi Snyder has shut down speculation that the iconic fast-food chain could abandon its roots, calling the idea of leaving the Golden State “the dumbest business decision ever.”

“We continue to grow in California. We have lots of stores slotted for future cities in California,” Snyder told CBS in an interview this week.

The comments come amid growing speculation that the burger giant could follow Snyder out of California after she and her family relocated to Tennessee last year.

The burger heiress, who has four children, grew up in Northern California before eventually settling in Southern California. She previously cited the state’s soaring cost of living and increasingly difficult environment for raising a family as reasons for the move.

“There’s a lot of great things about California, but raising a family is not easy here,” Snyder previously said. “Doing business is not easy here now.”

But the business won’t be letting go of California, Snyder emphasized in her remarks this week.

“This is where we started,” Snyder said. “It is where we are now, and it’s where we will always be.”

In-N-Out is still seeking to expand in Tennessee and other states, such as Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico for possible future expansion.

She recently confirmed that “New Mexico has been waiting for us, and that will be soon,” referring to an Instagram announcement that they will open an Albuquerque restaurant by 2027.

Despite those expansions, the chain continues to open new locations in California. Just last week, it was reported that public filings reveal the burger brand is plotting a new drive-thru store in Sherman Oaks — just off the 405 Freeway.

Snyder is the granddaughter of In-N-Out founders Harry and Esther Snyder, who established the business in California in 1948. It was the first drive-thru hamburger stand in California and is known for its fresh, never-frozen food and simple menu.

The chain has become such a staple in California that Snyder an estimated net worth of around $7.2 billion.

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