New Lenox Mayor Ready To Welcome Jack In The Box—But Where?

NEW LENOX, IL — Word's gotten out that California-based Jack in the Box is making a return to Illinois, eyeing locations in several suburbs, including New Lenox. Mayor Tim Baldermann on Friday said he hasn't heard much about their arrival, but confirmed they've inquired with the Village.

The chain announced a return to the Chicago area this week, citing plans to open in several suburbs, including New Lenox, Tinley Park, Naperville, Plainfield, Carol Stream, Lake in the Hills, Countryside, with an additional Chicago location near Midway. The openings are slated for 2025, with some possibly extending into 2026, the company said. It's been more than 40 years since the chain last operated in Chicago and Illinois, the company said in a release. The company hopes to open 125 stores in the Chicago market.

It's not yet clear where in New Lenox they intend to open, Mayor Tim Baldermann said, and he doesn't yet have many details.

"They did contact our office inquiring about business procedures and codes," Baldermann told Patch. "We look forward to hearing more about their plans to open in New Lenox."

Jack in the Box is known for its iconic menu that features customer favorites like burgers, tacos, chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, breakfast and late-night snacking options.

"Development venues will include traditional freestanding restaurants, end-caps with drive-thru, conversion of existing buildings, and dark kitchens," the company said in a release.

The new locations will offer dine-in, drive-thru, and mobile ordering options and will be open 24 hours per day.

"We’ve spearheaded conveniences that would become industry standards like the drive-thru, breakfast sandwiches and portable salads," the company said on its website. "Now we feature one of the largest and most distinctive menus in the quick-serve restaurant space. Everything from burgers to tacos to egg rolls. All cravings are welcome here."

Burgers "make up the core" of its menu, the chain's website reads. The chain currently has 2,100 locations across 21 states, according to its website. In June, leaders announced its continued expansion in Florida, in addition to its first Georgia and Kentucky locations. Corporate also has plans to expand to Michigan, Arkansas, Montana and Wyoming, according to its website.

Jack in the Box is promoting franchise opportunities available throughout Chicago as well as markets across the country. Anyone interested in learning how you can own your own Jack in the Box franchise, please visit www.jackintheboxfranchising.com.