Operations

Slutty Vegan signs wave of franchise deals, marks Florida debut

Photo: Slutty Vegan

August 14, 2026

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Slutty Vegan, a plant-based burger chain founded by entrepreneur Pinky Cole Hayes, closed out the first half of 2026 with a string of franchise agreements, an expanded footprint and fresh industry recognition, the company announced this week.

The Atlanta-based chain signed franchise deals in Washington, Detroit, Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio, and made its first move into Florida with a planned Miami location. It also opened a restaurant in Baltimore during the first half of the year.

In Atlanta, longtime restaurant operators Khadejah Davis and Jamel Douglas became Slutty Vegan's first franchise owners, taking over operation of the brand's flagship location. The pair, who also run multiple Juici Patties locations, will bring the concept to Miami as well, marking the brand's entry into the Sunshine State.

Franchise veteran Brandi Forte is developing a new Washington location, extending Slutty Vegan's presence on the East Coast. In Detroit, entrepreneur Obinani Iwuoha signed the brand's first Midwest franchise agreement, bringing nearly a decade of food and beverage experience to the deal. Soul Republic Hospitality Group, led by founder Akin Affrica, signed a two-location agreement to bring Slutty Vegan to Columbus and Cleveland.

The growth follows what the company described as a difficult stretch for the brand. Cole Hayes went through a highly public restructuring before regaining control of the company and rebuilding its leadership, systems and franchise strategy.

"A year later, we're being recognized by our industry, opening in new markets across the country, and providing opportunities to own a business," Cole Hayes said in a press release.

Cole Hayes and the brand also picked up several industry honors over the past year. Fast Casual named Cole Hayes to its 2026 Top 100 Movers & Shakers list, which recognizes 25 executives shaping the food-service industry. The Black Chamber of Arizona gave her a Lifetime Achievement Award at its 27th Annual Pinnacle Pathways Gala, and Cole Hayes, a Baltimore native, served as an ambassador for the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Championship Tournament.

Cole Hayes has also raised her public profile this year as a cast member on Bravo's "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" for its 17th season, introducing the brand to a wider television audience.

Founded in Atlanta in 2018, Slutty Vegan has grown from a single food truck into a national fast-casual concept known for its plant-based burgers, bold marketing and signature "Slut Sauce."

The company said its expansion into franchising reflects growing demand for the brand and a focus on partnering with experienced operators in high-opportunity markets.