Talking With:  Mrs. Winner’s Chicken & Biscuits CEO John Buttolph

3 Min Read By MRM Staff

Just a few years ago, John Buttolph was a lawyer in California with no food or restaurant experience. Today, he’s the CEO of Mrs. Winner’s Chicken & Biscuits.  In 2010, the southeastern chain known for authentic southern fried chicken, made-from-scratch biscuits and hot frosted cinnamon swirls, went bankrupt and closed all company-owned stores. Recognizing the brand’s potential, Buttolph acquired rights to the company in 2012. Since then, he has worked to improve the company’s business model and plans to have 100 new restaurants open within the next five years through franchising. Six new restaurants are under construction in Atlanta. The chain recently partnered with franchise veteran Mike Reynolds to help grow and attract new multi-unit franchisees. Franchised Mrs. Winner’s locations are available through property conversions or new construction with the total investment ranging from $200,000 to $500,000.

You had a well-established career in law in California and now…