Atlanta-based plant-based burger chain Slutty Vegan has signed franchise agreements to open new locations in Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, adding experienced multi-unit operators to its expanding network.
New franchisees take the lead
In Atlanta, Khadejah Davis and Jamel Douglas will operate the new location. The pair are already established multi-unit franchise owners of Juici Patties, a Jamaican fast-food chain, and are adding Slutty Vegan to their portfolio. In Washington, D.C., Brandi Forte, described by the company as a franchise veteran, will oversee development across the market.
Founder and CEO Aisha “Pinky” Cole Hayes said operator selection was deliberate: “Atlanta is where Slutty Vegan was born, and we’re planting deeper roots here while establishing our presence in D.C. I was intentional about partnering with operators who understand our business and the culture because this is bigger than the burgers. We’re creating opportunity, legacy and proving what’s possible when you never give up.”
From food truck to franchise model
Slutty Vegan launched in Atlanta in 2018, initially as a food truck and Instagram-based delivery operation before expanding into brick-and-mortar. The brand built a following around plant-based comfort food, bold branding, and community involvement through Cole Hayes’ philanthropic work via The Pinky Cole Foundation.
The road to franchising has not been straightforward. In early 2025, Cole Hayes temporarily lost ownership of the business following what she described as significant cash-flow pressures and corporate overhead that had grown to $10 million annually. She subsequently reacquired the company through restructuring, and in February 2026 filed for personal Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing roughly $1.4 million in personal debt. The franchise expansion is the company’s most visible growth move since that period of restructuring.
Cole Hayes also joined the cast of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta for its 17th season this year, broadening the brand’s visibility to a mainstream television audience.
