Anne Beiler began twisting pretzels in 1987 to support her husband Jonas’ vision to open a free counseling service in their community. What began as a single farmer’s market stand grew into Auntie Anne’s Inc., the world’s largest mall-based pretzel franchise with over 1,000 locations worldwide. Anne is among an elite group of women that have founded national companies in America, and is one of an even smaller number that have owned an international franchise company.
Anne’s journey to become a leading female entrepreneur began many years before the first pretzel was ever rolled. In September of 1975, Anne and her husband experienced a parent’s worst nightmare – the loss of a child. This event propelled Anne into years of darkness during which she nearly lost her husband, her family, and her faith. Out of her pain came purpose and the desire to persevere towards success personally and professionally.
Anne’s vision to serve, inspire, and give has been recognized multiple times. She was named one of America’s 500 women entrepreneurs by Working Women and Entrepreneur of the Year by Inc. Magazine. Anne’s Entrepreneurial insights and personal story have been featured on national television shows including The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The 700 Club, and The Joyce Meyers Show. She has been featured in Fortune Magazine, Guidepost, Nation’s Restaurant News and Christianity Today. Anne has also received honorary doctorates from Eastern College and Elizabethtown College.
“Auntie” Anne Beiler’s commitment to excellence is rooted in the belief that we give to get, to give again; and that success can only be realized when you have a great product, great people on your team and a purpose greater than yourself.
In April of 2005, Anne sold Auntie Anne’s, Inc. to pursue her true passion of enjoying time with her family, sharing her story and giving back to the community. Anne has authored Twist of Faith, a revealing look at the inner workings of her life as she built Auntie Anne’s, and the upcoming book, The Secret Ingredient. Anne Beiler lives in Pennsylvania with her husband Jonas. They are the parents to two grown daughters, both married, and four grandchildren.
