Maybe it’s because of the dismal job market, or maybe it’s because of a large fan base already living in Utah Valley, but whatever the reason, In-N-Out Burger has no shortage of potential employees or patrons.

The popular California-based burger chain is moving to Utah and the closest of the four new locations sits conveniently between BYU and UVU on University Parkway. The store is set to open mid-November.

“We are very excited about the new Orem location as well as our sites under construction in Draper, West Jordan and American Fork,” said Carl Van Fleet, vice president of planning and development for In-N-Out.

Plenty of other people are equally excited.
In response to a “hiring” sign at the Orem location, more than 2,000 people showed up over two days to apply.

“Lines were incredibly long,” said Ariel Thexton, a native of California attending UVU. Thexton was an applicant.

“They were open for two days and it was non-stop,” she said.
Of the 2,000 people, only 50 were hired.

“They’re really strict with hiring people,” Thexton said. “They’re always busy, so the workers have to be quick and efficient and have experience in a restaurant setting.”

The ones who make the cut are well cared for, especially in terms of fast food franchises.
“We do start our hourly associates at $10 per hour,” Fleet said. “It has always been our philosophy to take care of our associates and a good starting wage is one of the ways we do that. They can also earn raises as they master new positions, so there is opportunity to grow.”

Many college students from California and other places where there’s an In-N-Out say other fast food just doesn’t compare.

“It’s cleaner, and everything’s fresh,” Thexton said.
According to the company Web site, the founding family’s philosophy, which has turned into its corporate philosophy is, “Give customers the freshest, highest quality foods you can buy and provide them with friendly service in a sparkling clean environment.”