In-N-Out is one of the most popular burger brands in the United States, ranking number one in a 2022 poll. Primarily a staple of California and Southwestern states, the chain has gained a reputation not only for its much-loved food, but also for its outspoken Christian image. John 3:16 is printed on company’s soda cups and other verses make their appearance on other packaging as well. Harry and Esther Snyder founded In-N-Out in 1948, starting a colossal family business that current CEO, Lynsi Snyder, has inherited from her grandparents. Speaking to The Christian Post, she stated the tradition of printing Bible verses on packaging began with her uncle. “It was my uncle Rich who put the Bible verses on the cups and wrappers in the early ‘90s, just before he passed away. He had just accepted the Lord and wanted to put that little touch of his faith on our brand. It’s a family business and will always be, and that’s a family touch. In later years, I added verses to the fry boat, coffee, and hot cocoa cups,” she said.

Despite being an heiress, life has not always been easy for Snyder. At just 17 years old, Snyder’s father died. She fell into drug and alcohol use and into numerous unsuccessful relationships, including three failed marriages, the last of which ended due to domestic abuse. Eventually, Snyder realized the real solution to her pain was Christ. “I finally found that the deep need in my heart can only be filled by Jesus and my identity in Him,” she told CP. Finding Christ helped Snyder turn her life around and she started a non-profit, Army of Love, to help others combat spiritual darkness. During that time, she met her husband, Sean Ellingson.

In-N-Out has continued to thrive under Snyder’s leadership as well. She credits her grandparents for setting the company’s high standards. “They built a legacy of excellence in how we serve our customers, associates, and communities, which continues to this day. We continue all of this while refusing to compromise quality or giving in to the temptation to save on food costs or do what others may be doing,” she told Crosswalk Headlines. The company has faced some challenges in 2024, with Snyder choosing to close the chain’s profitable Oakland location due to safety concerns. “There was actually — gunshots went through the store, there was a stabbing, there was a lot,” she told PragerU. It is the first time the company has had to permanently shutter any of its locations. Snyder, however, felt the company had to prioritize the safety of employees and customers, saying, “We just felt like, this is not OK.”