Dallas Mavericks forward Caron Butler learned all about hard work and supporting a family at an early age. As a teenaged father, he worked at a Racine, Wisconsin Burger King, learning the ins and outs of the fast food business– from janitorial to cash register duties.
Today, all the hard work has come full circle. The 30-year-old baller owns six Burger King restaurants in Virginia and North Carolina, and says its one of the best business decisions he’s made yet.
BlackEnterprise.com talked with Butler about why he chose the franchising route and how Magic Johnson inspired him to keep his eyes set on business success after the NBA.
BlackEnterprise.com: As a youth, you once worked at a Burger King. What did you learn from that early experience?
Butler: At the time, I was supporting my first child. I was 15 years old. So it was the main reason I got a job. I was trying to make ends meet at home, supporting a family. I learned so much, like how to work with people, time management, responsibility, and professionalism. I got to work in all areas of the business, from janitorial to cashier to drive-thru to stocking.
What led you to pursue an opportunity to buy into a Burger King franchise?
I was presented with the opportunity to get into the franchise and thought it was a great way to branch off into business. It’s a situation with Burger King where you can’t lose. You can look at the Burger King name and its proven success in the fast food industry. Working there two years as a teen, knowing how things function inside and out, I thought it was a great investment. Their franchises will live on and you’ll continue to group and double your value.
Did you get any insight or advice from others about this business venture?
I talked with [Earvin] Magic [Johnson]. He’s the blueprint. He’s transcended the game on the court and off the court. You name it, he’s doing it — from Starbucks to theaters to movies . Who else to model yourself after but one of the greatest?
What other entrepreneurial plans do you have, and what advice do you have for others interested in pursuing franchising?
I look forward to expanding and doing more things with Burger King–maybe purchasing more locations. I’m also looking into movie industry. Advice? I would say just educate yourself in whatever you decide to invest in.