In business, success often comes down to innovation, determination, and a willingness to think outside the box.
But for me, the founder and CEO of the Jim’s Group, there’s another key ingredient that has fueled my journey: my unwavering Christian faith.
My story began with humble beginnings, a desperate need to pay the rent, and a vision that would eventually grow into a billion-dollar franchise empire.
Speaking with Shaz Jones on the BibleHax podcast, I shared how my business philosophy has always been deeply rooted in the principles of the Gospel, and it’s that foundation that has brought me where I am today.
From $24 to a Billion-Dollar Empire
In the 1980s, I was a university student with only $24 to my name when I started mowing lawns.
Initially, I saw it as a way to fund my academic research into the rise and fall of civilizations.
But when VIP, a major franchising company, entered the market, I faced a difficult challenge.
I actually approached them, hoping to help expand their business in my state rather than compete.
When they declined, I panicked—but that panic drove me to act.
I studied their stand at a franchise expo to learn everything I could.
That moment of adversity led me to build something radically different.
Today, the Jim’s Group has close to 5,500 franchisees and generates $1 billion in revenue.
It’s all thanks to a vision grounded in innovation, service, and faith.
Franchising with a Christian Ethos
My Christian beliefs have always guided my approach to business.
I often look to the story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet—a radical act of humility in its time—as the model for how I lead.
I don’t see myself as a boss.
I serve my franchisees.
They’re my clients, my family, my tribe.
My role is to help them succeed.
I’ve built our franchise system on this ethic of service.
Franchisees can grow their businesses however they choose while paying a fixed base fee.
They can switch franchisors or vote one out.
They even have the power to veto changes to their manual.
I’ve stood firm against unethical industry practices—like franchisors reclaiming businesses built by hardworking franchisees—and I’ve even written to the Prime Minister about it.
For me, franchising is about creating opportunities, not exploiting people.
Transforming Lives Through Franchising
True success isn’t just about revenue—it’s about impact.
I remember one former IGA manager telling me his son wished they could have breakfast together.
He quit his job, joined Jim’s Mowing, and although his income didn’t improve much, he got to see his son grow up.
That, to me, is priceless.
I’ve also seen franchisees choose to work fewer days so they can volunteer in their communities, like one who helps the homeless several days a week.
He won’t become rich, but as Jesus said, spiritual blessings matter more.
Overcoming the Challenges of Entrepreneurship
I know starting a business isn’t easy.
It’s risky.
One bad week, one broken car, and your income could evaporate.
That’s why we provide extensive training, support, and flexible financing.
Still, not everyone is cut out for business ownership, and I always encourage people to do their homework, even within Jim’s Group.
Not all franchisors in our system are equally good.
I’ll be honest: there are one or two I wouldn’t buy from myself.
But most are excellent, and the system works when you choose wisely.
A Legacy of Faith and Fortunes
Everything I’ve built—every success—has been driven by faith.
My Christian values have shaped our franchise into something that empowers people and uplifts families.
If you’d like to know more, I invite you to visit www.jims.net or email me directly at Jim@Jims.net.
In the end, it’s not just about business.
It’s about legacy, faith, and the lives we change along the way.