Single Mom Achieves Dream Of Becoming McDonald's Restaurateur In Bergen Co.

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — Since joining McDonald's as a crew team member when she was 16 years old, Janice Ayala's greatest aspiration was to become the owner of her own McDonald's restaurant.

After a 37-year-long career at McDonald's, New Jersey resident Ayala has become the owner and operator of the McDonald's at 180 Passaic Street in Garfield, formerly operated by recently retired owner Ed Acre.

"I am truly honored by this incredible opportunity,” Ayala said. “As a single mom with two daughters, working within McDonald’s provided me with several opportunities to not only advance my career, but also to introduce my girls to this business when they were each 16 years old, also starting their careers at McDonald’s as crew members. I am so proud to work alongside them and have the opportunity to see them grow each day.”

Beginning her career in 1985 as a crew member — her first-ever job — the Brooklyn native worked her way up to store manager at a Hackensack McDonald's, where she was mentored by Acre and his wife Hilde. Over the next two decades, she continued to take on new management roles and grow within Ed Acre's organization, ultimately becoming Operations Manager overseeing all four of his New Jerseys restaurants.

All of this has led her to achieve her dream of becoming an owner, a McDonald's spokesperson said.

“I've always known that hard work and excellent mentorship were important factors in becoming a leader, and I am grateful to Ed and Hilde for serving as outstanding mentors,” said Ayala. “As I begin this next venture, I look forward to serving the Garfield community in this new capacity as a local business owner.”

Ayala, a spokesperson said, has already established herself as an "advocate for local organizations" and plans to continue Acre's work in the community by supporting youth organizations such as the YMCA of Greater Bergen County and the local Boys & Girls Club.

“It has been an honor to work with Janice for so many years and to watch her grow personally and professionally,” Ed Acre said. “I’m so proud of everything she’s accomplished for the organization and our community. Janice is the perfect person for this role, and I can’t wait to see her excel in this next chapter.”