For Matt Davis, the aroma of glazed ham has been part of life for more than three decades. What began as a single franchise store opened by his parents during his college years has grown into the largest multi‑unit franchise group within the HoneyBaked Ham system. Today, Davis owns and operates 22 locations across several states, and he is planning to open nine more over the next three years, building on a family legacy that began in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The entrepreneurial journey began in 1993 when Davis’s father, Marion, opened a Hickory Hams location. The site was bought out by HoneyBaked Ham in 1998, making the Davises part of the brand’s earliest franchise community. Davis helped out during busy holiday seasons while in college, and after his father’s passing in 2007, he took full responsibility for the business. Growth was modest for several years, hindered by economic challenges and retirement plans, until a strategic purchase in 2013 of a Concord, North Carolina, store reignited expansion efforts.
Since that turning point, Davis has systematically added more stores, learning every aspect of the business along the way. His willingness to act as his own general contractor for new builds reflects a hands‑on approach to operational control and cost management, and it has paid off as he expanded his portfolio. Today, he stands out not only for the sheer number of stores he operates but also for his ability to plan long‑term in a business where more than half of annual revenue is generated in just a few weeks around the holidays.
Seasonal challenges have pushed Davis to innovate beyond the traditional peak holiday season. He has invested in roles and partnerships designed to drive year‑round catering sales, and his restaurants feature promotions such as enhanced lunch menus that make the brand relevant even outside the busiest months. “With Honey Baked Ham, we enjoy a quality of life unmatched by other chains,” he said, reflecting both personal satisfaction and business strategy.
Preparing the next generation of leadership is another priority. Davis’s eldest daughter serves as an assistant manager with aspirations to oversee broader operations, while his younger daughter is expected to focus on sales or financial management. Davis emphasizes that real‑world experience within the business is critical to understanding its nuances, and he encourages them to learn through hands‑on involvement. Above all, he believes in taking care of his team, knowing that strong employee relationships drive customer loyalty and long‑term success.
Looking ahead, Davis remains focused on expanding into new regions while preserving the family ethos that has guided his journey. His story illustrates how a seasonal specialty brand can succeed with vision, strategic planning and a commitment to community, ensuring that the HoneyBaked Ham legacy continues to thrive.
