Ed Doherty, founder of Doherty Enterprises and Elon trustee, urged Innovation Scholars on April 3 to “wow every guest” and put people first for lasting franchise success.
Ed Doherty urged Innovation Scholars on April 3 to “wow every guest every time.” The Doherty Enterprises founder and Elon trustee spoke at the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, linking his people‑first philosophy to the mission of the Doherty Center for Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
He presented a vision “to be the best food service company in the communities we serve”.
“Our vision is to be the best food service company in the communities we serve,” said Doherty.
He broke that vision into six words: wow, attitude, connect, engage, relationships, accountability.
“My mother was the hardest working person I’ve ever known,” he said, crediting her example for a work ethic that carried him from St. John’s University to Mobil and, in 1985, to launching his first franchise.
He advised students that franchise success rests on location, strong operations and community involvement. “Corporations don’t have the same passion as an entrepreneur whose money is on the line,” he said.
Doherty insisted that caring for employees is non-negotiable. “Celebrate their good times and support them in their times of need,” he said.
That approach helped Doherty Enterprises grow to more than 5,000 employees by 2020 and survive an 85% sales drop during COVID‑19.
He closed by challenging students to apply the wow mindset in internships and ventures.
“Connect, engage and build relationships, and success will follow,” he said.