Rep. Chuck Edwards, R-N.C., and his wife, Teresa, have sold their McDonald's restaurant business, concluding a nearly 50-year involvement with the fast-food chain. The sale was announced Monday to longtime friends and fellow franchisees Christine and Chris Nevant. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Edwards, 65, stated that McDonald's profoundly changed the course of his life, teaching him the value of hard work, personal responsibility, teamwork, and service. His journey with the company began at age 16 when he took his first job at a McDonald's. He later purchased that same restaurant and eventually expanded his ownership to multiple locations across western North Carolina.
The sale allows Edwards to fully transition away from business ownership and concentrate on his role in Congress representing western North Carolina. "While leaving a business that has meant so much to our family is bittersweet, this transition allows us to dedicate even more time and energy to the work of serving our communities and fighting for the people of our mountain region," Edwards said.
His wife, Teresa Edwards, took over the daily management of the McDonald's restaurants after Chuck Edwards was elected to the North Carolina Senate in 2016. "There is no question that Teresa made this possible," the congressman said. "She carried the responsibility of managing our business for nearly a decade while I served in elected office. Her dedication, leadership and countless sacrifices gave me the opportunity to serve our communities. I couldn't be more grateful."
The couple expressed gratitude to their employees, customers, and the communities for their support over the years. "We will always be thankful for the friendships we've made and for the opportunity to have been part of so many lives through our restaurants," Edwards added.