KFC
When people think about generational businesses , a retail franchise business is often overlooked . While the famous name may seem like corporate America , the local business affords an opportunity for a family to pass a tradition and heritage from generation to generation . The Kentucky Fried Chicken family of restaurants , now a part of Yum ! Brands , Inc ., provided this chance for the Schleicher family and its business , AJS , Inc .
Our discussion of family businesses would not be complete if we did not mention the value that a family can provide to the community through the work of their business from generation to generation . The truth is personified in local businesswoman Alice Schleicher .
Alice Schleicher originally had her sights set in quite a different direction . She had wanted to be a missionary since a young age and was also pursuing a singing career . Her hopes were to combine the two by singing for the Billy Graham Crusades . Her career path was changed when she fell in love and began to start a family . In 1977 , her son came home and wanted to buy a training restaurant for a KFC in Sellersburg . Using the family farm as collateral , arrangements were made to finance the purchase .
From the purchase of one store in 1977 , Alice was a pioneer for women in the leadership role as a restaurant franchisee . Her hard work , bolstered by a supportive family and good friends , paved the road to success which led to a total of 55 stores by 2008 . Her daughter Kimra Schleicher points to her mother ’ s strong work ethic . Alice could accomplish more than a day ’ s work in the half-day she had available . “ There is no
Alice Schleicher with Colonel Sanders .
substitute for hard work ,” she said . Everyone who knew Alice during her early years in the business pointed out her passion for people . She made employees feel appreciated and valued by rolling up her sleeves and helping wherever she was needed . She spent time listening to their concerns and finding solutions . Each customer was
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