Zac Johnston is a dynamic entrepreneur whose deep-rooted passion for community, food, and business has propelled him to the forefront of the Atlanta metropolitan area’s vibrant culinary and franchise landscape. As the owner of Bread and Butter Bakery, a beloved local institution with three thriving locations, Zac has not only cultivated a reputation for delivering exceptional quality but has also recently expanded his vision into franchising—a bold step that underscores his commitment to growth and innovation.

With over nine years at the helm of Bread and Butter Bakery, Zac’s leadership blends creativity, operational excellence, and an unwavering dedication to customer experience. His hands-on approach and strategic foresight have transformed a single bakery into a flourishing brand that feels like home to countless patrons across Covington and beyond. Zac’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there. As a part owner of PHJ PROPERTIES, LLC since January 2021, he has demonstrated a keen ability to diversify his business interests, investing in real estate opportunities that further strengthen his community ties.

In July 2021, Zac expanded his culinary footprint with the launch of BeeFresh Bowls, a vibrant concept offering Acai bowls, bubble tea, and oatmeal bowls to health-conscious customers in Covington, Georgia. Through BeeFresh Bowls, Zac continues to champion healthy lifestyles and introduce innovative food experiences to his hometown, aligning his business endeavors with a broader mission of community wellness.

Beyond his ventures in the food and property sectors, Zac’s passion for leadership and mentorship found a home on the football field. For nearly eight years, he served as the linebackers coach at Eastside High School, dedicating his time and energy to developing young athletes both on and off the field. His coaching tenure reflects his belief in the power of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—values that mirror his entrepreneurial journey.

Zac’s entrepreneurial roots trace back even further to his ownership of The Herd Coffee from 2018 to 2021, where he brought a fresh, artisanal approach to the coffee scene. Earlier in his career, he honed his understanding of local supply chains and small business operations as an Associate Buyer for Farmview Market, working closely with Georgia farmers and artisans to promote natural, homegrown products. His early management experience at the iconic Mystic Grill in Covington also laid a strong foundation for his future in hospitality and retail management.

A proud alumnus of Charleston Southern University, Zac earned his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a focus in Business Administration and Management. During his college years, he balanced the demands of being a student-athlete and a Resident Assistant, sharpening his leadership and organizational skills. His time as a collegiate athlete instilled in him a competitive drive and a resilient mindset—traits that continue to define his approach to business today.

At every stage of his career, Zac Johnston has embodied a rare blend of entrepreneurial zeal, community commitment, and operational expertise. His journey reflects a powerful narrative of homegrown success fueled by a deep love for people, food, and local culture. As he leads Bread and Butter Bakery into its exciting new chapter of franchising, Zac remains firmly grounded in the values that started it all: quality, authenticity, and heart.

Character
Zac Johnston exemplifies integrity, dedication, and a deep-rooted commitment to his community through every facet of his work, whether coaching young athletes or building businesses that prioritize quality and connection.

Knowledge
With a Bachelor of Business Administration and years of hands-on experience across the food, retail, and real estate industries, Zac brings a strong foundation of business acumen and operational insight to every venture he leads.

Strategic
Zac’s decision to expand Bread and Butter Bakery into a franchise and diversify his portfolio with ventures like BeeFresh Bowls and PHJ PROPERTIES demonstrates a forward-thinking mindset grounded in calculated growth and long-term vision.

Communication
From coaching on the field to managing teams across multiple businesses, Zac fosters clear, authentic communication that builds trust, motivates others, and ensures consistent alignment with his core values and mission.