Billionaire In-N-Out Owner Takes a Stand Against Soaring Food Prices Amid California’s Minimum Wage Rise

In a revealing conversation with NBC’s Savannah Sellers, she expressed her determination, stating, “I was sitting in meetings going toe-to-toe saying we can’t raise the prices that much. We can’t.”

Her path demonstrates her deep commitment to grasping the intricacies of the company’s operations. Reflecting on her experiences, Snyder pointed out, “I think that there is a stigma that can come with being the owner’s kid.”

Her stance, particularly in wake of the minimum wage increase to $20 per hour in California, shows that she feels a duty  to keep dining affordable. 

The cost of the store’s Big Fish sandwich also increased an astonishing 53%, a $4 increase that pushed its price from $7.49 all the way up to $11.49. This dramatic rise in prices is a clear sign of the times in the fast-food industry.

Economists suggest that maintaining lower prices not only attracts more customers but also sets a competitive standard that might encourage restraint among other chains (via Faster Capital).

By sponsoring local events and supporting charitable causes, the brand reinforces its connection with customers, fostering deep loyalty that transcends mere transactional relationships.

Customer Shawn Fields shared with The New York Post, “It’s such a nominal increase.” He further commented, “It seems like a reasonable amount.”

This includes long-term partnerships with suppliers and innovations in logistics to handle rising costs without passing them on to customers. Their approach emphasizes sustainability and efficiency.

“No to mobile ordering because that impacts the service experience,” she explained.

This focus on staff well-being contributes to lower turnover rates and a more consistent customer experience, which are crucial for maintaining quality as they resist widespread tech adoption.

This environmental consciousness is part of why the brand continues to earn public trust and customer loyalty.

Back in 2015, the burger chain initiated legal action against the delivery service, as reported by TMZ, asserting a lack of trust in third-party services to meet its stringent standards for handling and delivering food.

They’ve implemented tech upgrades that enhance kitchen efficiency and order accuracy (via SF Gate), proving that technology can be used to support service quality rather than diminish it.

This fresh take on fast food did away with the usual setup of cashiers, tables, and chairs. Instead, customers had to order ahead on their phones and swing by just to pick up their food, with no option to sit and eat inside.

This strategy keeps their marketing costs low and supports their commitment to not raising prices unnecessarily.

“In the earlier days, I actually wore pant suits, and I did that because I felt like I was supposed to,” she said.

“There are a lot of things that could be cheaper, easier, but that’s not the system we go through,” she asserts.

This milestone is celebrated through a series of customer appreciation events and limited-time offers that highlight the brand’s long-standing tradition and commitment to quality without compromising on modern expectations.

She notes, “I don’t see us stretched across the whole U.S.,” suggesting a strategic choice to preserve the chain’s exclusivity and identity.

These concepts aim to maintain the speed and convenience of fast-food while enhancing the customer dining experience.

This allows the company to gather insights and respond to customer needs without changing the fundamental ordering process.

Yet, her answer has always been a clear and firm no. She holds dear the fact that In-N-Out is a family-run, private business and doesn’t shy away from weaving her faith into its fabric, something that’s visibly echoed in the Bible verses you’ll find on the packaging. “We’re a family company, we’re a private company, and this is who we are. I’m unashamed of my faith,” Snyder says.

Her approach reflects a blend of traditional values and modern leadership practices.

This strategy ensures the brand’s enduring legacy and adherence to its core principles.