Leighton Hull uses the word 'growth' a lot because the term embodies a principle at the heart of his business and personal philosophy. Choosing the right franchise involves investigating the "growth rate and growth pattern" of a particular franchise.

It is a principle from which he seldom deviates. After eleven successful years in the food service industry, Hull bought a five-store package of Denny's units in Ventura County, California. His stores have posted double-digit increases in sales since, and he has set his sights on adding seven to ten units per year with a long-term nationwide goal of triple digits in stores.

Given Hull's track record and the success of Denny'snationwide, this is no pipe dream.

A member of several business organizations which focus on African-American issues, he also is a realist when it comes to distilling the elixir for growth. "Assess your own strengths and weaknesses," he counsels. "The ability to manage people and financial resources are prerequisites for long term success."