2 min read
In-N-Out Burger, the legendary California-based fast-food chain known for its delectable burgers and secret menu items, has made headlines recently—but this time, it's for an unhappy reason. The company is set to close its Oakland location, and it's not due to business troubles or financial woes.
As per emerging reports, the primary reason behind the closure is concern about increased criminal activities near the restaurant. The restaurant is the only In-N-Out location in Oakland, close to the Oakland International Airport. The news of its impending closure has left fans and burger enthusiasts across the region shocked and saddened.
In an official statement, Denny Warnick, the Chief Operating Officer at In-N-Out, announced that the Oakland restaurant would cease its operations as of March 24. This development is particularly significant as In-N-Out, a family-owned company founded in 1948, has never permanently closed a restaurant in its entire history, or so it is believed.
While rare, the closure underscores the gravity of the situation that has led to this momentous choice. Security guards near the In-N-Out have reported numerous car break-ins daily. This trend has extended beyond the restaurant's premises, as Oakland has witnessed a 38 percent increase in robberies and a 23 percent rise in burglaries between 2022 and 2023.
Social media has also played a role in shedding light on the security issues plaguing this In-N-Out. Disturbing videos posted online, like an Instagram video from September, reveal brazen acts of vandalism and theft occurring in the restaurant's parking lot. In the video, individuals are captured smashing car windows, looting luggage from the trunk, and making a swift getaway.
In-N-Out's decision to close this restaurant is unique because the company owns all its locations and doesn't franchise. This independence allows them to prioritize customer and employee safety over financial considerations. The closure serves as a reminder that, even for iconic brands, the safety and well-being of patrons and staff must always come first.
While this decision is undoubtedly disappointing for fans of the Oakland location, it reflects the company's commitment to the safety and security of its patrons and employees. In-N-Out's closure of the Oakland restaurant serves as a stark reminder of how important it is to be proactive when it comes to safety, even in the world of fast food.
