Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine Issue I, 2012 | Page 36

MEGA

Reconnecting: with Tom Barnett
Favorite quote:
“Develop people—they will become your image,
build your strength, and set you free.”

I

n business, a lot changes in three years,
especially in a down economy. And
while his business has taken a turn
for the worse, Tom Barnett’s values
and commitments remain strong as ever.
Since Multi-Unit Franchisee profiled
the Arizona-based multi-unit, multi-brand
franchisee in 2008, the skier, pilot, and
family man has purchased a small private jet that he flies. His son is now 18,
his daughter is 20, and he and his wife,
Georgia, have been married for 25 years.
His favorite pastimes include skiing with
them in Colorado.
Unfortunately, what hasn’t changed,
says Barnett, is the four-year decline experienced by his Phoenix and Tucson
area Burger Kings, The Good Egg restaurants (a full-serve concept he owns
with friends), and Blue Burrito Grilles
he contracts out in airports.

Name: Tom Barnett
Title: President
Company: Barnett Management Co.
No. of units 2012: 21 Burger Kings; 19 The Good Egg restaurants (a
concept we own with friends); 6 Blue Burrito Grilles (which we franchise out
to airports)
No. of units 2008: 22 Burger Kings; 20 The Good Egg restaurants; 2
Blue Burrito Grilles (plus 5 operated under license by HMSHost at airports)
Age: 65
Family: Wife Georgia; a son, 18, and a daughter, 20
Years in franchising: 32
Years in current position: 32

“I’ve never seen anything like it—
none of us has,” says Barnett, a former
fighter pilot in Vietnam turned UCLA
MBA-wielding franchisee and franchisor.
“Many of my fellow Burger King franchisees are doing worse than we are. I keep

asking myself how things can be worse.”
Born into a military family and having spent six years in the U.S. Air Force,
Barnett knows about hunkering down,
and that’s what he’s been doing. Growth
has been put on hold and bonuses and

PERSONAL
Key accomplishments: Having two successful, drug-free kids who still
want to be in the family.
Biggest mistake: Taking on too much debt.
How do you spend a typical day? Most days aren’t typical, but I do
a fair amount of reading, spend an hour or two exercising, and meet with
key people.
Work week: 24/7, unfortunately.
Favorite fun activities: Flying and skiing, having great times with my
wife and kids.
Exercise/workout: Mainly cycling to stay in shape for skiing and weight
lifting.
Favorite tech toys: My private jet is my favorite toy. I also like my iPad