In-N-Out Burger CEO Lynsi Snyder has teased potential future expansion into three additional states—Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma—during a recent interview with television host Terry Crews [1]. The California-based fast-food chain, founded by Snyder's grandparents Harry and Esther Snyder in 1948, continues to expand eastward while maintaining a deliberate, measured approach to growth [1]. Snyder emphasized that quality and company values take precedence over rapid expansion, stating, "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" [1]. She added that if the chain felt it was "slipping or losing our way, growth would look a lot different" [1].
The company's recent expansion timeline demonstrates this cautious strategy: In-N-Out opened its first Washington state location in August 2025, expanded into Tennessee in December 2024 with its first location opening on December 10, and currently operates five Tennessee stores with a sixth coming soon [1]. New Mexico is scheduled to receive its first In-N-Out restaurant in 2027, making it the chain's 11th state [1]. Despite this growth, In-N-Out maintains a strong presence in its home state with 299 locations in California, and Snyder reaffirmed the company's commitment to its Southern California roots, stating, "This is where we started, it's where we are now and it's where we'll always be" [1].
In-N-Out's expansion strategy is underpinned by its commitment to fresh ingredients and operational standards. The company does not own microwaves or freezers, and all burgers are made from fresh beef in patty-making facilities located in California and Texas [1]. Snyder noted that while the chain may appear to be "growing like crazy," it is not, and she expressed comfort with In-N-Out's selective presence: "I feel like there's a special peace knowing that In-N-Out isn't everywhere" [1].
CONCLUSION
In-N-Out Burger's CEO has signaled potential expansion into Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma while maintaining the company's philosophy of prioritizing quality and brand values over aggressive growth. With recent entries into Washington and Tennessee, and a planned 2027 expansion into New Mexico, the chain continues its deliberate eastward expansion while preserving its California heritage and operational standards.