Fast Casual Nation

Big Dave's Cheesesteaks founder: Breaking generational barriers in his father's name

Derrick Hayes, CEO of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, shares his incredible journey from a postal worker to building a fast casual empire in this inspiring Fast Casual Nation episode.

July 17, 2025

Derrick Hayes, CEO of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, shares his incredible journey from a postal worker to building a fast casual empire in this inspiring Fast Casual Nation episode.

Named after his late father, Big Dave's has grown from a single location with a broken grill to seven stores and 15 franchise locations, ranking No. 6 on the 2025 list of Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers.

Hayes discusses his strategic approach to franchising, innovative drive-thru model and vision for creating a billion-dollar brand that breaks generational barriers while serving authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks.

FastCasual #BigDaves #RestaurantFranchising