Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s, Inc., and franchisor of the world’s largest mall-based pretzel franchise spoke on Tuesday in the Mabee Business Building at ACU’s College of Business Administration. The luncheon, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield, was attended by approximately 95 members of the Abilene business community as well ACU students, faculty and staff.
“Auntie” Anne Beiler’s commitment to excellence is rooted in the belief that we give, to get, to give again; and that success can only be realized when you have a great product, great people on your team, and a purpose greater than yourself. In 2004, the Auntie Anne’s franchise system generated $248 million in sales and gave over $1 million to charitable organizations. Ms. Beiler encouraged the audience to always be persons of integrity, no matter the cost to your business, because it is the “right thing to do”. She described herself not as a professional public speaker but as a professional storyteller.
Established in 1988, Anne managed the business from one farmer’s market stand to a franchise organization with 150 corporate staff, supporting over 250 franchisees and their 850+ locations worldwide.
Anne’s vision to serve, inspire, and give has been recognized multiple times. She was named one of America’s 500 women entrepreneurs by Working Woman, Entrepreneur of the Year by Inc. Magazine, and received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Eastern College. Anne’s entrepreneurial insights have also been featured on many television shows including The Food Network’s Unwrapped, and The Oprah Winfrey Show; and in magazines such as Fortune, Nation’s Restaurant News, and Guideposts.
In the spring of 2005, Anne and her husband, Jonas decided to sell Auntie Anne’s, Inc. to Sam Beiler, a second cousin who had been with the company since 1989 and served as president and chief operating officer since 2001. Anne and Jonas are maintaining their vision of helping children and families and focusing energies on the development of the Gap Family Center. Anne is also in the beginning stages of writing a book and enjoys spending time with her family, including three grandchildren.
