All sorts of images that come to mind when you hear the words “Compton, California”— “legacy” not being one of them. But, for Patricia Williams, Compton and the McDonald’s franchise has enabled her to build an empire of 13 locations across Los Angeles, employing over 700 people in the community. Not to mention, it’s also allowed Williams to work alongside her daughters, Nicole Enearu and Kerri Harper-Howie, who are already in position to carry on her legacy.
Entering the Lucrative World of Big Macs and Fries
Over 30 years ago, Williams was inspired by other family members who also owned a few McDonald’s locations. They encouraged her to take the leap, and leave her career as a Rehabilitation Therapist behind to become her own boss. She and her husband, an LAPD officer at the time, cashed out their 401k’s and took out a small business loan to enter the world of Big Mac’s and fries, purchasing their first McDonald’s location in Compton.
Enearu said that it was all about being in the right place at the right time, for that first location. I couldn’t agree more. I talk with clients all the time about the pros and cons of purchasing an existing franchise, versus starting a new one. It has to be the right deal; otherwise, you might realize you would’ve been better off starting your own. In this case, Williams purchased a great resale and began the process of becoming a certified McDonald’s owner. That process includes working in the store and taking required read more….
