Today we’d like to introduce you to Randolph (Randy) Hazelton.
Hi Randolph (Randy), please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve never been someone who felt at home in corporate America. I wanted to build something of my own — something I could shape from the ground up. So, on a bit of a whim, I decided to leave corporate life and jump into the restaurant business.
I spent a lot of time in restaurants, bars, and lounges and always felt I could create something unique in that space. Over the next five years, I learned an incredible amount — about people, leadership, and the realities of entrepreneurship. It wasn’t easy, but it gave me the foundation I needed. Through that experience, I was introduced to an opportunity to enter the airport concessions industry, and that’s really where everything began to take off.
Since then, we’ve built a portfolio that spans multiple brands and locations across four states, including major airports like Dulles, Tulsa and Dallas Fort Worth and we’ve continued to grow steadily through partnerships and hard work.The vision was never just about building restaurants — it was about building a business that could serve as a launching pad for others. I wanted to create something that provided generational wealth, opportunity, and access — not just for me and my family, but for the people who work with us and those coming behind us.
I believe deeply in the importance of business ownership, financial literacy, and empowerment. Entrepreneurship, for me, isn’t just a personal journey — it’s a way to participate in and shape the economic future of our communities.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road — and honestly, I wouldn’t trade the bumps for anything. Early on, I learned some tough lessons the hard way. I’ve gone through losing businesses, even bankruptcy, and at one point, I was back at square one trying to figure out how to rebuild. Those moments test you — not just financially, but mentally and spiritually.
What got me through was a mindset shift. Instead of seeing failure as final, I started seeing it as tuition — the cost of learning how to play the game at a higher level. I began focusing on strategic partnerships, finding the right people who shared my values and vision. That’s really when things started to change.
I also had to get smarter about funding and structure — understanding that good ideas aren’t enough; you need strong financial strategy, relationships, and patience. The truth is, growth rarely happens in a straight line. For me, it’s been about persistence, faith, and keeping the bigger picture in focus — knowing that every setback is part of a bigger setup.
As you know, we’re big fans of H&H Hospitality. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At my core, I’m a builder — of people, partnerships, and possibilities. Through H&H Hospitality, we’ve built a company that’s redefining what hospitality looks like inside airports. We operate several well-known restaurant brands at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, including Shake Shack, Buffalo Wild Wings, Lemonade, and Auntie Anne’s, among others. Our reach now extends from Washington Dulles to Dallas Fort Worth International Airports.
But for me, the work is more than just food — it’s about smart business and ownership. Early on, I made mistakes chasing what was unsustainable, and it cost me. I went through bankruptcy with my first venture, and that experience changed how I think. I started studying people like Truett Cathy and other builders who focused on fundamentals — discipline, structure, and long-term strategy — not just excitement. That’s when things began to shift for me.
Now, I’m intentional about building businesses that make sense — ones that can scale, create jobs, and last. I believe in creating generational wealth — not just for myself, but for my family and for others who come from where I come from. Entrepreneurship, when done right, gives you freedom — and the ability to pass something down.
Community will always be a part of that mission. From hiring locally to investing in people and serving on boards like Invest Atlanta and AMAC, I want H&H to stand as proof that business success and community impact don’t have to live in separate worlds.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The qualities I value most are integrity, character, thoughtfulness, grit, perseverance, and a strong work ethic.
For me, integrity is everything — your word has to mean something. I believe character shows up when nobody’s watching; that’s what builds real trust and long-term relationships.
I value thoughtfulness because business isn’t just about numbers — it’s about people. How you treat your team, your partners, and your guests says everything about the kind of leader you are.
Then there’s grit and perseverance — those are non-negotiable. I’ve been through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and I know the only way you make it through is by refusing to quit. I respect people who keep showing up, who work hard no matter what’s happening around them.
At H&H, we talk a lot about discipline, systems, loyalty, and excellence — because that’s what turns good intentions into real results. You can have talent, but if you don’t have the discipline and grit to back it up, it won’t last.
Those are the qualities that built my journey, and they’re the same ones I look for in every person who joins our team.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randyhazelton/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randyhazelton/
