At 82, self-made billionaire Jack Cowin, a prominent figure in Australia’s fast-food industry, continues to inspire with his life lessons and unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. A man of humble beginnings, Cowin takes pride in his journey, emphasizing that he “didn’t come from [money],” but rather built his success through grit, action, and curiosity.
In 1969, Cowin made a bold move that changed his life: he purchased his first KFC store in Australia. His venture expanded into a 55-store franchise, which he later sold for over $71 million in 2013. Today, Cowin is the founder and chairman of Competitive Foods Australia, which operates Burger King under the brand Hungry Jack’s in Australia. The chain now boasts over 400 locations, and Cowin remains a driving force behind its growth. He is also the largest shareholder of Domino’s Pizza in Australia, overseeing a business that operates 4,000 stores across 12 countries. Not limiting himself to traditional food ventures, Cowin has also invested in v2food, a plant-based meat substitute company. Combined, his businesses are valued at over $3 billion, generating annual revenue exceeding $300 million.
Cowin attributes much of his success to his ability to see business as a “team sport,” urging others to embrace teamwork and collaboration rather than trying to achieve everything alone. He advises young people to resist overthinking and simply “have a go.” For those who find themselves lost or discouraged by setbacks, Cowin believes inactivity is the enemy of progress. “You’ve got to be in the game to be successful,” he emphasizes, warning against sitting on the sidelines and losing confidence. His belief in staying active and connected with people has been central to his philosophy: “You got to get back into the mainstream of life by doing stuff, interacting with people.”
Through his ventures with Domino’s Pizza and Hungry Jack’s, Cowin has created approximately 150,000 jobs globally, leaving a lasting impact on businesses and communities worldwide. Despite his remarkable achievements and wealth, Cowin remains enthusiastic about his work and has no plans to step away. He views his career as an adventure, filled with new opportunities and challenges rather than a monotonous grind.
Reflecting on his journey, Cowin’s advice for the younger generation remains simple yet profound: take action, embrace new experiences, and never underestimate the power of teamwork. “It’s been an adventure of doing new things,” he says, “and it’s been fun.”
