Early Roots in Cleveland, Tennessee
Allan Jones, legally known as William Allan Jones Jr., grew up in the small city of Cleveland, Tennessee. His upbringing shaped his values of hard work, resilience, and perseverance. During his high school years at Cleveland High School, Jones was not only a strong student but also excelled as captain of the wrestling team. He graduated in 1972 with early signs of the determination that would later define his entrepreneurial journey.
Entering the Family Business
Rather than pursuing a traditional college path, W. Allan Jones chose to take a different route. At just 20 years old, he left school and returned home to help manage his father’s company, the Credit Bureau of Cleveland. This hands-on experience opened his eyes to the financial challenges many people faced, particularly those who struggled to access credit. These lessons planted the seeds for what would later become a groundbreaking business venture.
Founding Check Into Cash
In 1993, Allan Jones established Check Into Cash in his hometown. His idea was straightforward but highly impactful: to provide short-term financial assistance to individuals in need of quick access to funds. What began as a single location quickly grew into a nationwide enterprise, with thousands of branches across the country.
Check Into Cash not only transformed payday lending but also positioned Jones as a leading voice in consumer finance. His vision expanded further in 1999 when he helped launch the Community Financial Services Association of America, which promoted ethical and responsible practices within the industry.
Expanding His Business Influence
Jones’s business decisions consistently pushed boundaries. In 2021, he orchestrated a merger between Check Into Cash and Community Choice Financial, combining two major players in the financial services sector. By the following year, Community Choice acquired Speedy Cash, further cementing the influence of Jones’s work.
His success was not confined to finance. In 2014, William Allan Jones Jr. purchased Hardwick Clothes, a historic American tailoring company originally founded in 1880. Under his leadership, the company was revitalized, once again earning national recognition. In 2019, he sold it to Puerto Rico Industries for the Blind, ensuring its continuation while supporting meaningful employment opportunities.
Commitment to Philanthropy
Throughout his career, Allan Jones has demonstrated a strong dedication to giving back. His contributions have touched education, culture, and community life in Tennessee.
- He founded MainStreet Cleveland in 1990 to breathe new life into the city’s downtown area.
- In 2014, the Jones family donated generously to Lee University, strengthening academic opportunities for students.
- In 2017, he made headlines by providing 43,000 NASA-approved eclipse glasses to schoolchildren across Tennessee.
Jones also created the beloved Halloween tradition of Tall Betsy, a character who became a cultural icon in Cleveland and a source of joy for families.
Recognition and Awards
The achievements of W. Allan Jones have not gone unnoticed. His honors include:
- M.C. Headrick Free Enterprise Award from the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce (2003)
- Induction into the University of Tennessee Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame (2003)
- Recognition in BusinessTN’s “Power 100” list (2005)
- Title of “King of Cash” by BusinessTN (2005)
- Fred Gregg Jr. Award from the Greater Chattanooga Sports Hall of Fame (2012)
- Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Philanthropy by the Tennessee Board of Regents (2015)
These accolades reflect not just his business success but also his lasting impact on community development and philanthropy.
Political Perspective
Though Allan Jones identifies as an Independent, his political leanings often reflect pro-business principles. Over the years, he has supported both Democratic and Republican candidates. Notably, he endorsed Donald Trump in the 2016 election, believing that a non-traditional candidate could better represent the interests of small business owners. His political engagement has consistently been guided by his commitment to entrepreneurship and local economic growth.
Lasting Impact of Allan Jones
From a small-town upbringing in Cleveland, Tennessee, to building one of the largest payday lending networks in the nation, William Allan Jones Jr. has proven himself to be more than just a businessman. He is a visionary leader, a community advocate, and a philanthropist whose contributions extend beyond profit margins.
The story of Allan Jones shows that success is not measured solely in wealth but also in the ability to make a lasting difference. Whether through innovative financial services, preservation of historic industries, or giving back to his hometown, his legacy continues to inspire entrepreneurs and community leaders alike.
