Early Life
Jimmy John Liautaud was born on January 12, 1964, in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He grew up as the second of four children. His mother was a Lithuanian immigrant and elementary school teacher, whom he described as a survivor. His father was an inventor, entrepreneur, and educator. Liautaud attended Elgin Academy, a private prep school. He struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia and graduated second to last in his high school class.
Rise to Success
After graduating high school, Liautaud decided to start his own business. With a $25,000 loan from his father, he opened his first Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches in Charleston, Illinois, in 1983. The original menu consisted of just four sandwiches. Liautaud focused on fast service and delivery to Eastern Illinois University students, which helped boost sales. By 1994, he had opened 10 restaurants and began franchising.
Key Business Strategies
Liautaud's business acumen and delivery service were key to Jimmy John's initial success. He also emphasized quality ingredients and speed. In 2016, he sold a majority stake in the company to Roark Capital. In 2019, he sold his remaining stake to Inspire Brands.
Philanthropy
Liautaud and his wife established the Liautaud Family Foundation in 2017, supporting causes like military families, education, health, and the arts. He has donated to numerous organizations, including the Mayo Clinic, Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, and the Horatio Alger Association.