Friday, Nov. 11, 2011

In-N-Out to open after New Year's

New location to hire 50 to 60 workers

The In-N-Out Burger planned about 10 miles outside of Los Banos is under construction with an opening date after the new year, according to an executive.

"We are very enthusiastic about our restaurant in Santa Nella," said Carl Van Fleet, vice president of planning and development for the Irvine-based chain, in an email. "At this time, we can't pinpoint an opening date, but it will be after the first of the year."

Van Fleet said the location will employ 50 to 60 at a starting pay of $10 an hour.

"There will be a mix of full-time and part-time positions," Van Fleet said, adding that hiring has not yet begun.

He said In-N-Out applications can be filled out at the company's website.

The restaurant required a sign variance from Merced County's Board of Supervisors because it is larger than what is typical in the county. Van Fleet said it's similar in size and height to some other signs in the area.

Greg Arnaudo, president of the Santa Nella Chamber of Commerce, said the city needed a new business like In-N-Out.

"It's a community that's trying to grow," Arnaudo said.

In-N-Out is the kind of business that can draw commuters off of Interstate 5, Arnaudo said, and will generate needed tax revenue for Merced County, not to mention local jobs.

Arnaudo said locals are excited about the restaurant, which has a sort of cult following. He's also heard positive feedback from Los Banosans.

"They are happy about it even though they have to drive out here to get their fix," Arnaudo said.

Enterprise reporter Thaddeus Miller can be reached at (209) 388-6562 or by email at tmiller@losbanos

enterprise.com.