Meet John Crays, Chick-fil-A Owner / Operator, Avalon

John Crays, Owner/Operator

AVALON

John Crays was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and has remained in the Peach State throughout his professional career. He began pursuing an occupation in IT in the 90s and went on to graduate with his Bachelor’s Degree from Georgia State University. Though he enjoyed his corporate career for a time, he began to catch a new vision for growth which began his entrepreneurial journey. Taking a leap of faith forward, John left his corporate position and moved toward learning about the company he worked for during his high-school years. John, his wife, Christina, and their two daughters partner together on this small business venture, caring for the people of Alpharetta in an effort to influence and build on their community in any way they can. Being a Georgia native, John is a fan of the Atlanta Braves and likes to take in the natural beauty of the state by being outdoors. In addition to outdoor activities, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.

Chick-fil-A Story

Vision and Values

John and his wife Cristina are passionate about using their influence and resources to impact their local community in whatever way they can. Chick-fil-A Avalon gives back to the city of Alpharetta through various partners, events, and organizations.

Raises awareness and funds for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Hosts local food and back to school Drives
Supports CURE Childhood Cancer
Involved with local elementary, middle, and high schools
Hosts family nights, daddy-daughter date nights, dogs in the drive-thru, spirit nights, and holiday-themed events.
Celebrates team members with monthly “CARE Events” to help create a relational environment and culture of care.

WE ARE PURPOSE DRIVEN

Working at Chick-fil-A Avalon is more than just a job. As our purpose statement says, “because we believe all people matter, we exist to give people a taste of belonging so that they share goodness with others.”

WE ARE GOOD STEWARDS

We carefully and responsibly manage the resources that are entrusted to us, as well as the community that we are so thankful to serve.

WE CARE FOR OUR GUESTS

At Chick-fil-A Avalon we strive to serve our guests in a way that they feel cared for personally. From our restaurant to their homes, we desire to have a positive impact on their experience with Chick-fil-A.

WE PURSUE EXCELLENCE

Through continuous improvement, focus and perseverance, we challenge ourselves to be our best for our team and our guests.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO MAKE CHICK-FIL-A A CAREER OR BECOME AN OWNER/OPERATOR?

“As an Owner/Operator, I spend most of my time with my leadership team working to become servant-focused leaders who inspire all those who work at Chick-fil-A Avalon and giving back to the local community. My wife and I are passionate about impacting the Alpharetta area by using our influence and resources to strengthen the fabric of the local community.“

– John Crays