I think the age didn’t really matter. It’s the experience or knowledge that makes the difference. Rich was young when his father had him involved in the business, so by the time he passed Rich should’ve been able to lead the company. Age doesn’t matter if you have enough passion, drive and knowledge of what you are doing, that has much more to do with succeeding or not.
2. In an era of jalapeno poppers and extreme fajitas, how risky is In-N-Out’s long-term strategy of offering only four simple food items? Is the strategy still on track?
I don’t think they are being risky with their long term strategy. In 2013 rumors were going around that an In-N-Out Burger was coming to Denver City, Colorado, by Sept. 2014 when there was still no sign of a store being opened, Councilman Albus Brooks got involved and contacted In-N-Out Burger, and they commented that it wasn’t going to happen. The whole city was upset. It made the news that they are going to Toronto, Canada in 2015, but just for a day.
Problem Solving
A would be entrepreneur walks into your bank and asks to receive financing for a business plan modeled after In-N-Out’s approach and extremely simple menu. But all the ingredients would come from local supplier and growers within a thirty-mile radius of town. Is this a winning recipe deserving of financing from your bank?
Yes I would say it is. Their plan is not only profitable to the bank, and themselves, it will also bring in commerce for the local businesses.
Further Research
How would you illustrate this concept to consumers? Explain why you would choose to include or exclude TV, print radio or online. Advertising based on your premise. How would you pitch this concept to In-N-Out’s