Shirley Barnes – Multi-Unit Franchise Owner, Farmer Boys

Franchise executives discussing recruitment automation and CRM systems with AI and human intelligence working in harmony.
Shirley Barnes – Multi-Unit Franchise Owner, Farmer Boys – Automation, CRM, and Human Intelligence in Franchise Recruitment 3

“There’s nothing quite like owning your own destiny.”

Before becoming a Farmer Boys franchise owner, I spent over 20 years as a district sales manager in women’s retail. I worked long hours, commuted constantly, and rarely saw my family. When my son was young, I realized I was spending all my energy building someone else’s dream — not my own. That’s when I decided it was time to do something for myself and my family.

I was drawn to Farmer Boys because it’s a family-owned brand built on great food and strong values. From the moment I met the team, I could feel that sense of community. It wasn’t just about business — it was about joining a family that truly supports one another.

The training program was incredibly thorough and welcoming. Even though I had never owned a restaurant before, the 10-week hands-on program covered everything — from how to bread our zucchini and cook our cheeseburgers to maintaining spotless restaurants and taking care of guests. By the time I finished, I felt completely confident running my first store.

The support from the Farmer Boys corporate team and fellow franchisees has been outstanding. Even as the company has grown, it still feels like the same close-knit organization it was 20 years ago. Whenever I need help or advice, someone is always there to guide me. That’s something truly unique in the franchise world.

Today, my husband, my son, and I proudly own three Farmer Boys locations in Southern California. It’s been an amazing journey — one that’s given us not only professional success but also a wonderful quality of life. This business has become a family legacy that I can one day pass down to my son.

If you’re thinking about becoming a franchise owner, I’d tell you to make the leap. With Farmer Boys, you’re never alone — you have an entire team behind you who genuinely wants you to succeed. There’s no better time to join the Farmer Boys family. For me, it’s been the best decision of my life — and a true American Dream come true.”

Read how Owning Your Destiny just a got a lot more affordable. See how to qualify for rebates up to $400,000.

Reach out and contact Joe Caruso on LinkedIn.

Franchise Expert Joe Caruso
Shirley Barnes – Multi-Unit Franchise Owner, Farmer Boys – Automation, CRM, and Human Intelligence in Franchise Recruitment 4