In April 2005, Sam Beiler launched the next generation of Auntie Anne's, Inc. when he purchased the company from its founders, Anne and Jonas Beiler. Since then, Sam has steered Auntie Anne's® through a major re-branding initiative designed to update the brand, keep it relevant to its loyal customers, and reach new consumers. His vision is to be innovative in all that Auntie Anne's does, from its award-winning franchisee system and international expansion model, to its new product advances and dedicated customer service focus for franchisees.
Beiler began his relationship with Auntie Anne's in 1989, as a franchisee. He grew to play an integral role in establishing Auntie Anne's corporate regional presence, first as the company's Southeast regional director in Jacksonville, Fla., and then as Midwest regional director in Chicago. In 1997, he moved to corporate headquarters in Pennsylvania as vice president of store operations. He became president and CEO in August 2001, and oversaw the strategic growth and development of the Auntie Anne's franchisee system and internal management of the company.
A resident of Lancaster, Pa., Sam is affiliated with Leadership Roundtable: The Food Service Forum for the New Millennium, and CEO Forum. He is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers and he is active in both the National Restaurant Association and the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association.
Sam and his wife keep busy with three children. He enjoys spending his downtime watching his favorite football team, the Philadelphia Eagles®.
Sam's favorite Auntie Anne's Pretzel is Cinnamon Sugar Stix.