Source: QSR Magazine
Dee Wells is proof that growth can be quiet
Dee Wells began her franchising journey at just 15 and has built a legacy bringing A&W restaurants to small towns across America. Her story is a reminder that impactful growth doesn’t have to be loud—it often happens quietly, with patience, persistence, and confidence.
“[During my franchising journey] the city clerk told me the town appreciated me coming in, and that they wanted the business, so I was blindsided when I walked into a room full of board members and 30 or 40 residents,” Wells recalls. “Here I was, bringing an investment to this town, and they didn’t want me there.”
She navigated community skepticism with determination, utilizing her expertise to demonstrate to towns how her business could enhance local commerce—even when her knowledge was challenged, she didn’t back down.
“I was very firm and confident with myself at that moment, and it worked in my favor as I was able to move forward with my business in that town. Now, the locals thank me for helping them boost sales,” Wells adds. “I’m proud of myself for having my clipboard ready and standing up for what I believed would help the town, the schools, and the community. And now I feel very welcomed.”
