Pinky Cole Hayes is pushing Slutty Vegan into a new era of growth with franchise deals in Atlanta and Washington, D.C.
The announcement comes just months after the entrepreneur filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Despite recent financial challenges, the plant-based burger chain is expanding through strategic partnerships as it works to rebuild and scale.
The move marks a major step in Slutty Vegan’s transition to a franchise-led business model. It also signals confidence in the future of one of the nation’s most recognized Black-owned restaurant brands.
Slutty Vegan Expansion Signals a New Business Strategy
Slutty Vegan recently signed franchise agreements in both Atlanta and Washington, D.C. The company sees the deals as an important milestone in its next chapter.
The Atlanta-based chain has spent recent months navigating corporate restructuring, store closures, and bankruptcy proceedings. However, the new agreements show the company is focused on long-term growth rather than retreat.
By expanding through franchise partnerships, the brand aims to strengthen its presence while reducing some of the operational pressures that come with rapid expansion. The strategy could help position Slutty Vegan for more sustainable growth in the years ahead.
Pinky Cole Hayes Focuses on Partners Who Understand the Brand
Cole Hayes said selecting the right franchise partners was a top priority. She wanted operators who understand both business and the culture behind Slutty Vegan.
“I was intentional about partnering with operators who understand our business and the culture,” Cole Hayes said.
Franchise veteran Brandi Forte will lead development efforts in Washington, D.C. Cole Hayes believes the city aligns closely with the company’s mission and customer base.
Meanwhile, Khadejah Davis and Jamel Douglas will operate a new Atlanta location. The business partners already run Juici Patties restaurants and bring experience in growing food brands.
Their Atlanta location will also make history. They will become the first official Slutty Vegan franchise owners in the company’s hometown.
Atlanta and Washington, D.C. Become Key Markets for Growth
Atlanta remains at the heart of Slutty Vegan’s story. The company launched there in 2018 and quickly developed a loyal following.
“Atlanta is where Slutty Vegan was born, and we’re planting deeper roots here while establishing our presence in D.C.,” Cole Hayes said.
She added, “This is bigger than the burgers. We’re creating opportunity and legacy.”
Washington, D.C., represents another important market for the company. The city offers a strong customer base and cultural connection that aligns with the brand’s identity and values.
Together, both cities are expected to play a major role in Slutty Vegan’s expansion plans.
How Slutty Vegan Became a Black Owned Business Success Story
Founded as a food truck in 2018, Slutty Vegan quickly transformed into a national brand. Its plant-based burgers attracted both vegan and non-vegan customers.
The company became known for its bold marketing, unique menu names, and strong community engagement. At its peak, the brand operated 14 locations across the United States.
The business reportedly reached a valuation of about $100 million. As a result, Cole Hayes became one of the most visible Black women entrepreneurs in the food industry.
Her success story inspired many aspiring business owners, especially Black women looking to build companies in competitive industries.
Bankruptcy Challenges Did Not Stop Pinky Cole Hayes
Earlier this year, Cole Hayes filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Court filings showed debts that included more than $1.2 million owed to the U.S. Small Business Administration and nearly $192,000 in state tax obligations.
Despite the headlines, she has consistently described bankruptcy as a restructuring tool rather than a sign of defeat.
“People think that bankruptcy is a bad thing. It is a tool. People use it all the time, so I am tapping into the tool,” she told Page Six.
Cole Hayes has also made it clear that business setbacks do not erase past accomplishments.
“I’ve made the Time 100 list, the Forbes 1000 list, twice the cover of magazines. I’ve did all of the things. So just because you see bankruptcy and just because you see a little bit of breakdown, don’t ever erase the history of being that girl,” she said.
As Slutty Vegan expands into its next phase, Cole Hayes is showing that resilience, strategic planning, and persistence remain central to her entrepreneurial journey.
