Introduction
When we talk about American entrepreneurs who have shaped industries while also giving back to their communities, William Allan Jones Jr., also known as W. Allan Jones, stands out as a remarkable example. His journey from a young businessman in Tennessee to the founder of one of the nation’s largest payday lending companies shows both hard work and vision. Beyond his success in business, Allan Jones has also been recognized for his contributions to wrestling, historic preservation, and community leadership in his hometown of Cleveland, Tennessee.
Born into a family that valued business and community, Allan Jones carried forward those values and built a reputation as a leader who worked tirelessly. His story highlights how dedication, innovation, and strong community ties can create a lasting legacy. From founding Check Into Cash to supporting wrestling and revitalizing his city, his impact is felt across multiple areas of life.
The Early Business Journey of W. Allan Jones
The story of William Allan Jones Jr. begins when he was a young student at Middle Tennessee State University. At just 20 years old, he entered the family business, Credit Bureau Services of Cleveland, which had been started by his father, W.A. (Bill) Jones Jr. Unlike many young men of his age, Allan committed himself to long work weeks and the challenges of learning every detail of the business. His effort paid off, and under his guidance, the company expanded across Tennessee, with nearly a dozen offices from Atlanta to Memphis.
By the time Allan sold the company in 1998, it had become the largest credit collection agency in the state of Tennessee. This achievement set the stage for his next venture. His early experiences taught him valuable lessons in management, persistence, and customer service. These qualities would later become the foundation of his most well-known company, Check Into Cash, which revolutionized short-term lending.
The Rise of Check Into Cash
In 1993, W. Allan Jones launched Check Into Cash in Cleveland, Tennessee. At the time, payday lending was a new concept in the United States. His idea was simple yet effective: small, short-term loans to help people bridge financial gaps. The business model quickly gained popularity, offering $200 loans with short repayment terms. By late 2002, the company had grown to more than 700 stores, and today, it operates around 1,100 locations nationwide.
The company’s success was not just about expansion; it was also about leadership within the industry. Check Into Cash set standards for responsible lending and became a billion-dollar enterprise under Jones’ leadership. His entrepreneurial spirit transformed a small idea into a national brand, showing how vision and persistence can create long-term success.
Community Development and Historic Preservation
While business was central to his career, Allan Jones never forgot about his roots in Cleveland. He invested heavily in community projects, especially those related to historic preservation and city beautification. Through Jones Properties, LLC, he purchased and restored many historic buildings in downtown Cleveland. His efforts played a key role in revitalizing the area and turning it into a vibrant part of the city once again.
One of his notable contributions was rebuilding the historic Courthouse Bandstand, originally erected in 1920 and torn down in 1963. The replica, completed in 2005, now serves as a centerpiece for community events. Additionally, Jones supported environmental efforts by helping Cleveland earn its designation as a Tree City USA, which included planting trees and supporting the city’s first full-time urban forester.
Passion for Wrestling and Sports Philanthropy
Beyond business, William Allan Jones Jr. is deeply connected to the sport of wrestling. He founded and financed the Cleveland-Bradley Kids Wrestling Club, introducing countless young athletes to the sport. His contributions to wrestling extended beyond his community, supporting high school, college, and even national wrestling programs. His generosity also reached the University of Tennessee, where he gave significant support to athletics.
In 2001, he built the Jones Wrestling Center at Cleveland High School, naming it after his father. This facility became a hub for training and competition, solidifying his family’s legacy in both education and athletics. His support for wrestling reflects his belief in discipline, hard work, and community engagement—values he practiced throughout his life.
Awards, Recognition, and Leadership Roles
The contributions of W. Allan Jones have been widely recognized. In 2003, he was inducted into the Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He also received Cleveland’s highest business honor, the M.C. Headrick Free Enterprise Award, presented by the Chamber of Commerce. These recognitions highlight both his business success and his role as a civic leader.
Over the years, Allan Jones has served on numerous community boards and university committees. His leadership has extended beyond business, making him a well-respected figure not only in Cleveland but across Tennessee. His impact proves that business success and community involvement can go hand in hand when guided by strong values.
Other Entrepreneurial Ventures
In addition to Check Into Cash, Allan Jones pursued a variety of other ventures. He opened The Bald Headed Bistro, an upscale restaurant in Cleveland that later became True at BHB in partnership with celebrity chef Wesley True. His ability to bring new experiences to his hometown reflected his entrepreneurial mindset.
In 2014, Jones also stepped in to save Hardwick Clothes, America’s oldest tailor-made clothing manufacturer. By rescuing over 200 jobs and turning the company profitable again, he showed his commitment to protecting American businesses and workers. Though he eventually sold Hardwick Clothes in 2019, his efforts left a lasting mark on the company’s history.
Conclusion
The life and work of William Allan Jones Jr. illustrate the balance of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community leadership. From his early years in his family’s credit bureau business to building Check Into Cash into a billion-dollar company, his achievements in business are remarkable. Yet, what truly sets W. Allan Jones apart is his dedication to his hometown, his passion for wrestling, and his drive to preserve history and improve the environment.
Through his leadership, Cleveland, Tennessee has benefitted from revitalized downtown areas, new sports facilities, and opportunities for young athletes. His recognition in the Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame and his role as a community leader show that his impact reaches far beyond financial success. Allan Jones remains a symbol of how one person’s vision and commitment can shape industries, communities, and future generations.
