News Summary
In-N-Out Burger’s owner, Lynsi Snyder, is relocating the burger chain’s operations to Franklin, Tennessee, aiming to grow the business in a more favorable environment. With plans to open 35 new locations by 2026, Snyder cites California’s high taxes and regulations as key reasons for the move. While the corporate headquarters will remain in California, the new regional headquarters signifies a shift for the popular burger chain. As many firms exit California, In-N-Out looks to maintain its quality and values while expanding in Tennessee.
Texas Business News: In-N-Out CEO Lynsi Snyder Relocates to Tennessee for Family and Business Growth Amid California’s Challenges
Lynsi Snyder, the owner and president of In-N-Out Burger, has announced her relocation from California to Tennessee. This strategic decision aligns with her plans to open new restaurants in the region while raising her family. Snyder has expressed her dissatisfaction with California’s environment for both family life and business operations, pointing out significant challenges in raising children and conducting business within the state.
Although the corporate headquarters of In-N-Out will continue to operate in California, the company plans to consolidate its operations by establishing a new regional headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee. This move reflects a growing trend among various businesses that have opted to relocate their headquarters out of California in search of a more favorable operational climate.
California has been facing rising concerns among business leaders regarding high taxes, stringent regulations, and difficulties associated with family life. The state imposes a tax rate of 13.3% on its highest earners, which extends to profits derived from the sale of investments or business assets. This tax structure is among the most burdensome in the United States, contributing to a growing narrative that California is an unfavorable location for businesses.
Data indicates that California has experienced a net out-migration of companies, with the year 2022 witnessing peaks of 741 firms leaving the state. In 2023, the exodus continued with an additional 533 businesses relocating. Some notable companies, including Tesla and Charles Schwab, have already made the switch, highlighting a broader business trend favoring states with more business-friendly environments.
Despite these trends, experts maintain that California still possesses a robust economy characterized by a diverse talent pool and strong foundations in sectors such as technology, biotechnology, and entertainment. However, navigating the state’s complex regulatory environment poses challenges for businesses, as they face overlapping authorities that they must comply with for successful operation.
In an effort to address these issues, California has initiated reform efforts aimed at simplifying business licensing processes and lessening the regulatory burdens placed upon firms. Nonetheless, comprehensive reforms face significant political hurdles, preventing substantial advancements toward a more business-friendly atmosphere.
As part of her expansion plans, Snyder intends to establish 35 new In-N-Out locations in Tennessee, with the construction of a new facility projected to be completed by 2026. Snyder emphasizes her intention to uphold the quality and core values established by her grandparents, who founded the chain in 1948. This commitment to quality remains a top priority even as the company explores opportunities for growth.
Ultimately, while Snyder’s relocation to Tennessee signifies a proactive approach to facilitating both personal and business growth, she reaffirms that her affection for California remains unchanged. In-N-Out Burger’s deep-rooted history in California continues to be an integral part of the company’s identity, with over 400 locations currently in operation across eight states.
This transition marks a significant change not only for Snyder but also for the landscape of business operations as companies reassess their locations amid evolving economic conditions and regulatory environments.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CNBC: In-N-Out Billionaire CEO
- Wikipedia: In-N-Out Burger
- Business Insider: In-N-Out Relocation
- Google Search: In-N-Out Burger expansion 2025
- Fortune: In-N-Out Heiress Move
- Google Scholar: In-N-Out Burger California Tennessee
- NY Times: In-N-Out CEO Move
- Encyclopedia Britannica: In-N-Out Burger
- Fox Business: In-N-Out Heiress Leaving California
- Google News: In-N-Out Tennessee headquarters

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