Slutty Vegan Rebuilds Through Franchising a Year After Ownership Crisis

After facing ownership crisis and financial difficulties, plant-based burger chain Slutty Vegan has spent the past year rebuilding through franchising under founder Aisha “Pinky” Cole Hayes. Cole Hayes restructured the company in early 2025, repurchased it through a new entity, and closed several locations before rebuilding around a franchise model announced last September. This model has since expanded the brand into new markets such as Ohio, Detroit, Washington D.C., and Miami.

Despite the challenges, Cole Hayes has received industry recognition, including being named to the 2026 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers list and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award. She has also expanded the brand and provided opportunities for franchise ownership, with the first franchise owners taking over the flagship Atlanta location. Cole Hayes remains optimistic about the company's future, stating, "This is what happens when you bet on yourself and refuse to give up, and we’re just getting started."