In-N-Out Bans Number 67 Amid Viral Trend Disruption

The popular fast food chain In-N-Out has officially removed the number 67 from its ordering system, responding to a viral trend that has captured the attention of young customers. Reports indicate that this decision stems from children frequently shouting “six-seven” and mimicking hand gestures when the number was called. The change has been confirmed by People magazine, although it remains unclear if this ban applies to all locations.

The decision to eliminate 67 follows a similar action taken against the number 69, which was previously banned from the ordering system due to its association with inappropriate humor. This latest move highlights the impact of social media trends on businesses, especially those catering to a younger demographic.

Impact of the Viral Trend

The trend itself is thought to have originated from an unreleased song titled “Doot Doot (6 7)” by rapper Skrilla. It gained enough popularity to be recognized as the Word of the Year by Dictionary.com. Children, particularly those in elementary and middle school, have embraced the phrase, often engaging in playful gestures that accompany their shouts. The exact meaning of the trend remains somewhat ambiguous, but its influence on the fast food industry is clear.

In response to the trend, other fast food chains have taken a different approach. For instance, Wendy’s has introduced a 67-cent Frosty to its menu, while Pizza Hut has rolled out 67-cent wings. These adaptations showcase how businesses are navigating viral phenomena, either by embracing or distancing themselves from them.

Despite the removal of 67 from In-N-Out’s system, the fast food chain’s commitment to its customer base remains strong. While the company is adapting to the whims of social media, it also continues to focus on its core offerings, which have made it a beloved choice among burger enthusiasts.

As the fast food landscape evolves, it will be interesting to see how other chains respond to similar trends and whether In-N-Out will reinstate the number 67 in the future. For now, the chain’s decision reflects a proactive stance in maintaining a family-friendly environment amidst changing cultural dynamics.