This article was originally published in the McCook Gazette in March 2024.
McCOOK Neb. - On March 1, Leonard Management officially took over as the new owner of the local McDonald's franchise in McCook. The transition marks a significant shift in ownership, bringing fresh perspectives and strategies to the fast-food chain. Leonard Management owns McDonald's locations across four states - Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota - boasting a business legacy of over 32 years with 38 restaurants under their management.
Steve Leonard opened his first restaurant in 1991. Leonard's son-in-law, Blake Zogleman, joined him in 2009, and his son, Nate Leonard, joined the family business in 2011. The three are co-owners of Leonard Management and are all active in leadership.
One notable advantage of owning multiple McDonald's establishments is the infrastructure in place to manage the operations efficiently. Zogleman, the part owner, emphasized the importance of having dedicated teams to uphold equipment maintenance and provide comprehensive human resource support to employees and management, ensuring a seamless experience for all involved.
Moreover, the new owners are keen on fostering growth opportunities for individuals working within the McDonald's system. Focusing on upholding the values of speed, accuracy, friendliness, quality, and cleanliness, Zogleman highlighted its commitment to enhancing the employee experience. Notably, the starting wage for employees is $15 per hour, reflecting their belief in investing in the best talent to deliver exceptional service.
Zogleman said, "We've been spending quite a bit of time at the restaurant, talking about our culture and ideas. McDonald's has a standard for everything, and we really follow that standard. A lot of our success is attributed to consistently executing those standards."
Addressing immediate concerns, the new owners have prioritized fixing the air conditioning system at the McCook location, demonstrating their commitment to providing a comfortable environment for both customers and staff. Additionally, initiatives such as the upcoming McTeacher Night, Tuesday, April 16, showcase their dedication to supporting the local community through fundraising activities that benefit the community.
With a strong emphasis on fostering a positive work culture, Leonard Management offers various employee development programs. These include assistance in obtaining high school diplomas, tuition aid for college students, and partnerships with educational institutions like Colorado Technical College through their "Archway to Opportunities" program.
Sharing his journey, Zogleman revealed how his father-in-law's guidance led him to work as a crew member at McDonald's, sparking his passion for the industry. This hands-on experience ultimately shaped his career path and commitment to enhancing the McDonald's brand.
To ensure a smooth transition for existing employees, Leonard Management has deployed staff from other locations to assist and will relocate a supervisor to McCook. The company also welcomes nonprofit organizations to apply for fundraising support through its website, showcasing a strong dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
The arrival of Leonard Management heralds a new chapter for McDonald's in McCook. It promises a blend of operational excellence, employee empowerment, and community engagement that sets the stage for continued success and growth in the region.
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