While Carol McLeroy may not be widely recognized, she stands as a formidable figure among women entrepreneurs in the southern United States. As the co-owner of Zaxby’s, a renowned fast-food chain renowned for its chicken fingers, wings, and salads, McLeroy has played a pivotal role in its success. Zaxby’s boasts over 900 locations across 18 states, with a valuation exceeding $2 billion, as reported by Forbes.
The Zaxby’s Story
Carol McLeroy and her husband, Zach McLeroy, crossed paths in the late 1980s while employed at a McDonald’s in Statesboro, Georgia. Sharing Zach’s culinary zeal and his aspiration to establish their own dining establishment, they embarked on a journey together. Zach’s culinary experimentation birthed the concept of Zaxby’s, offering patrons fresh, personalized chicken dishes adorned with an array of tantalizing flavors.
In 1990, armed with a $16,000 loan from Zach’s father, the McLeroys inaugurated the inaugural Zaxby’s outlet in Statesboro. The moniker “Zaxby’s” was a fusion of Zach’s name and the term “zesty”. The restaurant swiftly captivated diners, prompting the McLeroys to extend their venture through franchising. Presently, Zaxby’s stands tall as one of the nation’s premier privately-owned restaurant chains, boasting annual revenues exceeding $1.8 billion.
Carol McLeroy’s Role in Zaxby’s Success
Carol McLeroy’s impact on Zaxby’s prosperity is undeniable, as she assumes responsibility for the company’s operations, marketing strategies, and human resources. Furthermore, she actively participates in menu innovation, ensuring quality standards, and fostering exceptional customer experiences. Carol’s hands-on management style sees her frequently engaging with staff and patrons at various restaurant locations, embodying a warm and approachable demeanor that characterizes her genuine concern for the Zaxby’s community.
Beyond her business endeavors, Carol McLeroy emerges as a dedicated philanthropist, championing numerous causes within Zaxby’s operational locales. Her fervent support extends to education, healthcare, and animal welfare initiatives, where she has contributed substantial sums to schools, medical facilities, and shelters. Additionally, Carol’s philanthropy encompasses sponsorship of scholarships, sports teams, and community events, embodying her commitment to enriching the lives of others. Moreover, her involvement as a board member of the Georgia Restaurant Association and mentorship of aspiring women entrepreneurs underscores her broader impact beyond the realm of business.
Carol McLeroy’s Net Worth and Lifestyle
Some sources estimate Carol McLeroy’s net worth to surpass $500 million. Residing in a luxurious mansion nestled in Athens, Georgia, she shares her abode with her husband and their two children, Parker and Taylor. Parker garners attention as a reality TV personality on the MTV series Buckhead Shore, which chronicles the lives of affluent young adults in Atlanta. Meanwhile, Taylor divides her time as a student at the University of Georgia and contributing to Zaxby’s operations.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Carol McLeroy finds joy in traveling, golfing, and cherishing moments with loved ones. An aficionado of country music, she’s had the pleasure of meeting esteemed artists like Luke Bryan and Blake Shelton. Despite her substantial wealth and recognition, Carol remains grounded and attributes her achievements to hard work, faith, and an unwavering love for Zaxby’s.
Carol McLeroy serves as an inspiration, particularly to women striving to fulfill their aspirations. Her journey underscores the belief that with passion, resilience, and dedication, any goal is attainable. She epitomizes wealth not only in terms of financial prosperity but also in the richness of happiness and fulfillment she embodies.
