Williams Fried Chicken (2014)

 

Williams Chicken launched its revamped Pathway to Owners program, designed to transform long-term managers into franchise partners. This initiative reflects founder and CEO Hiawatha Williams’s original vision: to create an ownership track for dedicated operators rather than rely solely on outside investors. Texas Mezzanine Fund embraced that vision, partnering with Williams Chicken to underwrite and support this innovative franchise-expansion model.

Oscar Lott’s Journey
Oscar Lott, a Williams Chicken manager for 12 years, became the first participant in over a decade to convert his operational expertise into ownership. As the inaugural graduate of Pathway to Owners, Oscar’s story is a testament to perseverance and deep institutional knowledge. “This is a dream come true,” noted Hiawatha Williams of his promotion. Oscar’s long track record—spanning every facet of restaurant operations from front-line service to regional training—made him the ideal candidate to inspire fellow managers toward ownership.

Pathway to Owners Program
Key features of the Pathway to Owners program include:

  • Waived Franchise Fee: Removes the upfront barrier that often deters internal candidates.

  • Loan Guarantee Support: Texas Mezzanine Fund underwrites a significant portion of startup capital, reducing risk for both the new partner and franchisor.

  • Turnkey Business Setup: From site selection to equipment procurement, the program streamlines launch.

  • Ongoing Operational and Marketing Support: Ensures consistency and brand integrity through corporate-led training, local marketing campaigns, and day-to-day advisory services.

Director of Corporate Operations and Franchise Development Tim Williams underscored the program’s ripple effect.

“Oscar’s success will pave the way for other managers to follow, fostering a culture of internal growth and long-term commitment.”
— Tim Williams

Impact and Outlook
With Oscar’s grand opening scheduled for June 20XX in East Dallas, Williams Chicken projects a 15% increase in same-store sales during his first year as owner-operator. The collaborative financing structure with Texas Mezzanine Fund not only accelerates franchise growth—it also deepens community engagement by promoting local leadership. Over the next 24 months, Williams Chicken plans to add three more manager-partners through this model, reinforcing its reputation as a franchisor that invests in people.

The Williams Chicken Pathway to Owners program exemplifies how strategic financing and clear ownership pathways can unlock entrepreneurial potential within existing teams. By waiving fees, providing loan guarantees, and delivering comprehensive support, Williams Chicken and Texas Mezzanine Fund are redefining franchise growth—one manager at a time.

 

LOCATION

DALLAS, TEXAS

 

IMPACT

X FULL-TIME JOBS
X CONSTRUCTION JOBS

 

PARTNERS

WILLIAMS CHICKEN

 
COALESCENCE