Crumbl CEO Prioritizes Family Time, Sunday Closures

Crumbl CEO Jason McGowan has implemented a policy of closing all Crumbl cookie locations on Sundays, a decision he attributes not solely to religious observance but to a broader philosophy of work-life balance and the necessity of time for personal reset. McGowan, who is Mormon and a father of seven children, believes that sustained success in business requires a deliberate effort to step away from constant work and engage in meaningful moments with family. He stated in an interview with Fortune that life should not be characterized by a perpetual state of "go, go, go," and that true success encompasses building a significant company while also cultivating important relationships.

McGowan applies this principle of presence to both his professional and personal life. When he is at home, he consciously sets aside work-related communications, such as emails, to fully engage with his children during their activities, like attending soccer games or participating in family board games such as Catan. Similarly, when he is in his role as CEO, whether visiting franchise locations or interacting with employees, McGowan aims to give his undivided attention to these interactions, avoiding distractions. He acknowledged that achieving a perfect "work-life balance" is challenging, even expressing a slight aversion to the term itself, but underscored the profound importance of being present with one's family.

Crumbl, which began in 2017 with the objective of creating the ideal chocolate chip cookie, has experienced substantial growth. Co-founders Jason McGowan and Sawyer Hemsley have overseen the expansion of the company into a significant enterprise that now generates over $1 billion in annual revenue. The cookie empire boasts nearly 1,100 locations and employs more than 29,000 individuals. McGowan recalled the demanding early years of the business, characterized by extensive hours spent preparing dough, cleaning kitchens late into the night, and working weekends while uncertain about the company's future viability. These formative experiences have significantly influenced his current leadership approach, reinforcing his conviction that knowing when to disengage from work is as critical as the drive to build and grow the business.

The practice of closing on Sundays is not unique to Crumbl. Other prominent companies, such as Chick-fil-A and Hobby Lobby, have also maintained Sunday closures for many years, citing the religious beliefs of their respective founders. This practice highlights a segment of the business world that prioritizes specific operational schedules influenced by personal values and beliefs, even amidst the pursuit of large-scale commercial success.