Jimmy John Liautaud
Jimmy John’s® founder
I’m living the American Dream, but my life didn’t start out that way. Up until my teenage years, family life was very stressful due to serious financial losses that resulted in two bankruptcies from my Pop’s entrepreneurial ventures. Home life was volatile, but school was worse. I was the, “fat kid”, bullied, always picked last, and wasn’t a good student.
I graduated second to last in my high school class, so college wasn’t really an option. My dad wanted me to join the Army, but I wanted to start a business. My father loaned me $25,000 and one year to make a profit.
I had no Plan B, I had to make it happen.
I opened my first sandwich shop in 1983 and now we have over 2,800 stores in 43 states. My 35-year overnight success story was built on the foundation of hard work and discipline. The restaurant business is tough, but I found I was good at something for the first time ever, and I loved it. 18-hour work days, no days off, no holidays, and little family time – this business isn’t for everyone. People do what you do, not what you say, so I led by example, made the sacrifices, and my business grew. I never wrote a business plan and never expected my business to grow like it did. Here’s one piece of advice: outwork your competition. Come in an hour early, stay an hour later than the rest, and work on Saturday. I guarantee you someone will notice.
I’ve worked hard, built wealth, and won some awards along the way, and that’s all great, but I view my greatest accomplishments in life as my marriage to my beautiful and smart wife, Leslie, and raising our three beautiful children who have grown into amazing adults. They are grounded, balanced, nice people, who truly care about others. Family is everything to me.
Thanks for visiting my site and I hope you grab a nugget or two that you can use in your own life.
God Bless my family, my team, and God Bless America!
“I can’t dance, I’ve got no rhythm, I can’t read, I’m good at math, and I’ve been given lots of passion and energy. I use it to help others. I love mentoring young entrepreneurs, students who are less fortunate than most, and my team. 14 out of 17 of my department heads came from the sandwich shop and are now millionaires.”
Growth
Since starting with just a $25,000 loan from his father and after putting in over 35 years of hard work, Jimmy has grown Jimmy John’s into a national chain.
Awards
Jimmy has been recognized for his work growing the Jimmy John’s company and brand. He has received the Horatio Alger Award and the Nation’s Restaurant News Golden Chain Award, and was named Dealmaker of the Year.
Philanthropy
Jimmy came from humble beginnings and built one of the fastest-growing chain restaurants in the country. He is dedicated to giving back to those in need in his communities and giving others the resources necessary to help themselves.
THE LATEST ON THE BLOG
News & Articles
As a successful entrepreneur, Jimmy gives back to others through supporting the non-profits he is passionate about and providing advice for business operators and aspiring young entrepreneurs.
Speaking
Jimmy captivates audiences wherever he goes with his infectious, boisterous personality. He frequently coaches and mentors young entrepreneurs as well as various restaurant and business operators.
Videos
As the founder of one of the fastest growing restaurant chains in the nation, Jimmy often shares his story and keys to success. He hopes to inspire and motivate others to overcome obstacles and to accomplish their dreams.
Photos
Keep up with Jimmy’s activities – from talks and speaking engagements to awards ceremonies and philanthropy efforts – through his photo gallery.
JIMMY JOHN
Around the Web
As a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, Jimmy John Liautaud has been featured in numerous publications for his professional and personal achievements.
As the founder of Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, Jimmy has had a long career growing the business from the ground up. Keep up with his activity and milestones on LinkedIn.
Visit Facebook to get the latest updates for Jimmy John Liautaud and Jimmy John’s.
The complete story of the founding of Jimmy John’s and how Jimmy built it into one of the fastest-growing chains in the country.
After selling part of his company to Roark Capital, Jimmy was able to focus on what he loves most: developing freakishly delicious food.
Visit Instagram to get the latest updates for Jimmy John Liautaud and Jimmy John’s.