In-N-Out Burger President Lynsi Snyder has addressed the decision to close the company’s only Oakland location, citing persistent safety threats that made the site untenable. The closure, a rare move for the fast-food chain in its 75-year history, reflects the company’s commitment to protecting its employees and customers.
Persistent Safety Concerns
Snyder revealed that the Oakland restaurant experienced a near-daily barrage of violent incidents, including gunfire, stabbings, and thefts. She described the situation as “absolutely dangerous,” noting that these safety issues made it impossible to maintain a secure environment.
“Out of 365 days a year, it seemed like there was some kind of incident on 300 of those days,” Snyder said, emphasizing that the safety of In-N-Out associates and customers had become a top priority.
Challenges with Police Response
Adding to the restaurant’s difficulties was Oakland’s slow police response time. Reports indicate that the city’s average wait for emergency services ranks among the worst in California, often exceeding state-mandated limits by three to four times. This lack of timely support further complicated efforts to ensure safety at the location.
A Tough Decision
Despite the restaurant’s profitability, Snyder explained that the risks outweighed the benefits. “We simply couldn’t continue operating under these conditions,” she said. The company made the difficult decision to close the restaurant permanently, a move that marks a first for In-N-Out’s long-standing history.
Support for Employees
In-N-Out offered assistance to employees affected by the closure, providing opportunities for relocation to other nearby locations or severance packages. “Our associates are like family, and we’re doing everything we can to support them during this transition,” Snyder said.
Broader Implications
The closure of the Oakland location highlights the challenges businesses face in areas with high crime rates. Companies like In-N-Out are increasingly forced to weigh public safety against operational viability, particularly in regions where law enforcement struggles to address rising violence effectively.
Moving Forward
Snyder emphasized that In-N-Out remains committed to its mission of providing high-quality food and a safe environment for employees and customers. “We hope this decision sends a message about the importance of creating safer communities for everyone,” she concluded.
As businesses continue to navigate the challenges of operating in crime-affected areas, the closure of the Oakland In-N-Out serves as a stark reminder of the impact that local safety conditions can have on even the most iconic brands.
NEW: In-N-Out owner says she was forced to close their Oakland location because there was a crime almost every day, says the closure was the only one in 75 years.
Oakland is a great litmus test for what happens when you let liberals control an entire city for an extended period… pic.twitter.com/tPpydx8zdP
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 25, 2024