In-N-Out Scam | Trader Joe's Bags Sell For $10K To $50K | Lower Utility Bills: CA Business News

CALIFORNIA — This week in California business news: Two accused scammers are behind bars for what police say was a pattern of fraud at a dozen In-N-Out locations, a new bill could help lower utility bills for Californians, and Elon Musk's AI tool has issued an apology for creating sexualized images of children.

Additionally, Trader Joe's tote bags — which retail for $3 — are selling for thousands of dollars overseas.

But before getting to the biggest business stories in the Golden State, here are some of the best consumer deals of the week:

• Shake Shack is offering a free chicken sandwich with any $10 purchase every Sunday through the end of June. That's on top of another deal, where customers can get any size soda for just $1 when they order through the Shake Shack app. More details here.
• Buffalo Wild Wings' Month of Free deals is underway. Rewards members can take advantage of a wide range of deals throughout the month. Starting Monday, customers can get free delivery with a minimum $20 purchase. And throughout the month, the chain is offering buy one, get one free deals on wings every Tuesday and Thursday. More details here.

Freebies, Deals And Steals

Check out this week's top headlines for California business news on Patch:

• Why $3 Trader Joe's Bags Are Selling For $10K To $50K
• In-N-Out Scammers Hit A Dozen Locations With Counterfeit Bills: Police
• CA Bill Could Help Renters Lower Utility Bills With Renter-Friendly Solar Systems
• Grok Apologizes For Creating Sexualized Images Of Children
• This CA City Has Become A Celebrity Real Estate Hot Spot
• Megan Thee Stallion Opens A Popeyes Chicken Restaurant
• Disney Officially Retires Major Hotel Perk For Guests
• Hugs And Kisses Return To Airport Arrival, Departure Gates At 2 SoCal Airports
• Napa Launches Free Studio For Foodie Startups

More Restaurant News

Banning's Farm 2 Fork Plans Ribbon Cutting Celebration

The Farm 2 Fork Cafe and Bakery is celebrating its grand opening in the heart of downtown Banning.

New Breakfast Burrito Spot To Open Doors In Costa Mesa

A new breakfast burrito joint is preparing to open its doors at the Lab Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa.

Longtime French Eatery Closes In SF: Report

The eatery, featured in the Michelin Guide, was known for its savory and sweet soufflés.

Bagel Shop To Open Soon In South Temecula: What To Know

Einstein Bros. Bagels is coming to Temecula. Here's the whole schmear.

Amy's Drive-Thru Closes Last Organic-Focused Restaurant

The Rohnert Park location was the first of four drive-thru locations for "Amy's" Petaluma-based organic company.

San Ramon Gets Its First Taste Of A New Mexican All-Night Comfort Food Diner

A 24/7 Mexican diner opened in the Tri-Valley filling the location occupied for a decade by a Wendy's drive-through.

Historic SF Restaurant Closes After More Than 50 Years: Report

The restaurant had served everyone from famous musicians to former presidents, according to a report from the San Francisco Chronicle.

Retro Pleasanton Bar Set To Close: 'End Of Our Song'

"Our revenue just hasn't kept pace with the rising costs and our very high rent increases," bar officials posted on social media.

Napa Japanese Eatery Shuts Down 1st Street Location: Report

Eiko’s Restaurant will close a location on Jan. 11 after more than a decade in business but expand its other site.

Taco Bell Opens Third Live Más Café In San Diego County

Live Más Cafés feature specialty drinks as well as favorite Taco Bell menu items.

Grand Opening Of Boba Shop Planned In South Temecula: Meet Krak Boba

Krak Boba's Boba Courage is coming to Temecula, opening Saturday at the Vail Ranch Plaza location.

More Retail News

New Goodwill Retail Store Coming To San Diego

The grand opening event will offer discounts, giveaways, and a chance to win gift cards.

Another Walmart Supercenter Opens This Month In RivCo. AI Is Driving The Business.

According to the company, Walmart isn’t about replacing human connection with machines. Instead, AI is removing "friction" for customers.

Macy's, GameStop Closing Dozens Of CA Locations

It's game over for hundreds of stores for a major gaming retailer and a popular department store chain and mall-anchor.

Billionaires Shop At This Rural NorCal Grocery Store

Some of the richest people in the U.S. shop at this 137-year-old grocery store in California.

South Bay Shopping Center Sells For Record Price: Report

The shopping center was sold last month.

'Most Significant' Downtown Napa Investment Pushes Forward

Plans move forward on hotel, restaurant, shops, spa, and condos in phase 2 of the First Street Napa project. Be prepared for detours.

Second IKEA Planning Studio, Pick-Up Point Announced For San Diego County

The space will serve as a planning studio where customers can work with IKEA specialists to plan and order home furnishing solutions.

Dana Point Beachside Hotel Closes Its Doors

El Caminante Hotel & Bungalows announced its closure on its website this week.

Blackhawk Plaza Market Favorite To Close

After nearly two decades, Draeger’s Market announces the store is closing, citing "industry challenges," and a sale on store items.

More Business News

Burglars' $100K Haul Included Pokémon Cards: PD

Four men were arrested on suspicion of stealing $100,000 worth of collectibles from an LA County trading card shop.

RivCo To Net More Than $1M From Verizon In Hazmat Lawsuit

Riverside County will receive over $1 million after a $7.7 million settlement with Verizon Wireless over hazardous materials violations.

Vineyard Owners Who Neglect Their Grape Crops Could Be Fined Under New Law

This year, Sonoma County Ag Commissioner Andrew Smith said the tough economic climate is forcing wine growers to make tough choices.

Warner Bros. Discovery Rejects Paramount Skydance's Latest Hostile Takeover Bid

"Our binding agreement with Netflix will offer superior value at greater levels of certainty," Warner Bros. board said in a statement.

Are We Alone In The Universe? South Bay Company Joins NASA In Search For The Answer

Northrop Grumman Inc. is among seven companies selected to help NASA advance technology for its Habitable Worlds Observatory concept.

Malibu Architect Uses Expertise To Help Build Stronger Homes In Wake Of Palisades Fire

Abe Roy, with Design Equity, can't help but reflect on how far his community has come since the destruction began on Jan. 7, 2025.

Valero Winds Down Benicia Refinery, Shifting Bay Area Fuel Supply To Imports

After decades on the Bay, Valero’s Benicia refinery heads toward closure. Layoff warnings will follow.