Shaquille O’Neal is not only a basketball legend but also a powerhouse in the business world. While most know him from his NBA fame, many are shocked to learn just how extensive his franchise holdings are. From unexpected ventures to shocking numbers, O’Neal’s entrepreneurial spirit is something few expected. What kind of franchises does he actually own? How did he build such an impressive empire? Get the full, jaw-dropping details about Shaq’s business success below! 👇👇

Shaquille O’Neal’s Secret Fast-Food Empire: How the NBA Legend Became a Business Mogul

When you think of Shaquille O’Neal, you might first picture his dominance on the basketball court. A 7-foot-1 powerhouse, O’Neal was a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, winning four championships and earning a place among the greatest basketball players of all time. But what many don’t realize is that the former NBA star has become just as impressive off the court, building an empire of business ventures, particularly in the fast-food industry.

While O’Neal has carved out a successful career as a sports analyst on Inside the NBA, a DJ, actor, and even a wrestler, it’s his investments in the food and beverage industry that have taken many by surprise. In fact, O’Neal’s post-basketball life has been defined by his impressive business acumen and diverse portfolio of franchises.

A Billionaire’s Rise to Business Glory

After retiring from the NBA in 2011, Shaquille O’Neal could have easily rested on his laurels and enjoyed the wealth he accumulated throughout his basketball career. But instead, he dove headfirst into the world of business. In fact, O’Neal is now ranked as one of the wealthiest former NBA players, with an estimated net worth of $400 million as of 2022.

A significant contributor to his substantial wealth is his ventures in the food and beverage sector. O’Neal has leveraged his star power and brand to make savvy business moves, and one of his first big investments was with the Krispy Kreme doughnut chain.

Krispy Kreme: The Beginning of O’Neal’s Food Empire

O’Neal’s first major foray into the restaurant world came in 2016 when he purchased a franchise of Krispy Kreme doughnuts in Atlanta. This was the start of a string of investments that would establish him as a serious player in the fast-food industry. Many fans were shocked when it was revealed that O’Neal owned nine Krispy Kreme franchises, all located in and around Atlanta. The NBA star has become an active promoter of the brand, lending his famous face to campaigns and even appearing in commercials for the doughnut giant.

But Krispy Kreme was just the beginning.

Papa John’s: A Pizza Empire

In addition to Krispy Kreme, O’Neal expanded his portfolio to include a substantial stake in Papa John’s Pizza, one of the most popular pizza chains in the United States. O’Neal purchased nine Papa John’s franchises, all in the Atlanta area. His involvement with the pizza brand didn’t end with ownership; he became a prominent figure in the company’s advertising campaigns, further solidifying his place in the restaurant world. O’Neal’s business relationship with Papa John’s goes beyond mere investment, as he joined the company’s board of directors in 2019, further cementing his role as a trusted partner and ambassador.

Auntie Anne’s: Pretzel Power

Next up, O’Neal turned his attention to Auntie Anne’s, the popular pretzel chain found in malls across the country. Many were surprised to learn that O’Neal owns 17 Auntie Anne’s franchises. These stores, like his other investments, are spread across the Atlanta area, contributing to O’Neal’s growing presence in the food industry.

For O’Neal, diversifying his portfolio in the fast-food industry makes perfect sense. As a man who’s been in the public eye for decades, O’Neal understood the power of brand recognition, and Auntie Anne’s, much like Papa John’s and Krispy Kreme, is a well-known name with mass appeal.

Five Guys: Shaq’s Fast-Food Dominance

Perhaps the most staggering part of O’Neal’s business empire is his involvement with Five Guys, the fast-casual burger chain known for its huge portions and fresh ingredients. O’Neal’s 155 Five Guys locations make up about 10% of the entire company’s franchises. The sheer number of locations he owns in this franchise speaks volumes about O’Neal’s foresight and business savvy. While many would have assumed that a former NBA player would be more interested in investments that reflect his personal interests—such as sports or entertainment—O’Neal’s focus on the food industry has proven to be a smart move.

24-Hour Fitness: A Focus on Health

In addition to food, O’Neal also invested in fitness, acquiring 40 locations of 24-Hour Fitness. As someone who spent years working on his physical health as an NBA star, it makes sense that O’Neal would turn to fitness. His 24-Hour Fitness locations align with his overall focus on wellness, and the fact that he owns such a large number of them speaks to his dedication to diversifying his business portfolio.

Car Washes: An Unexpected Investment

O’Neal’s investments don’t stop at fast food and fitness. In a surprising move, the former NBA legend also acquired 150 car washes. This unexpected investment further showcases O’Neal’s keen eye for opportunity in various industries. The car wash industry is one that often flies under the radar in terms of high-profile investments, but O’Neal’s commitment to owning a large number of locations further reinforces his ability to spot hidden gems.

The Secret to Shaq’s Success

So, how does O’Neal manage to run such a massive empire while maintaining his media career? The answer lies in O’Neal’s business philosophy and his team of trusted advisors. Known for his hands-on approach to business, O’Neal has cultivated a network of experts to help him manage his ventures. From hiring professionals to handle the day-to-day operations of his franchises to using his platform to promote his businesses, O’Neal has established a highly effective system that keeps his investments running smoothly.

Additionally, O’Neal has a personal interest in each of his ventures, and he doesn’t shy away from getting involved in the day-to-day activities of his businesses. His dedication and commitment to making his franchises successful is part of what has made him such a successful businessman.

Conclusion: Shaquille O’Neal’s Legacy as a Business Mogul

Shaquille O’Neal has proven that his talents extend far beyond the basketball court. By making strategic investments in a wide variety of industries, particularly in the food and fitness sectors, O’Neal has built an empire that rivals some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world. His savvy business moves, from Papa John’s and Five Guys to Auntie Anne’s and 24-Hour Fitness, showcase his ability to think long-term and diversify his investments.

O’Neal’s success as a businessman mirrors the same commitment to excellence he demonstrated on the basketball court. And while he’s undoubtedly earned his place in the business world, O’Neal’s journey shows that success comes from not just talent, but vision, persistence, and a willingness to learn and grow in different industries.

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, O’Neal’s approach offers a roadmap for leveraging fame and talent to build a lasting, diversified business legacy. The future is bright for Shaquille O’Neal, both as a basketball icon and a business mogul.