News Summary
Pinky Cole, the founder of Slutty Vegan, has regained control of her plant-based burger chain following significant financial troubles and a serious car accident. After temporarily transferring ownership to an assignee, Cole repurchased the business and is now focused on restructuring and expanding operations. Through community engagement and a commitment to her vision, she aims to grow Slutty Vegan while also launching a motivational book to inspire others. This new chapter in her journey embodies resilience and a dedication to redefining success in both business and personal life.
Pinky Cole Regains Control of Slutty Vegan Following Financial Restructuring and Near-Fatal Car Accident
Introduction
Atlanta has welcomed back Pinky Cole, the dynamic founder of Slutty Vegan, a pioneering plant-based burger chain. After facing substantial financial difficulties and a near-fatal car accident, Cole has successfully resumed control of her company, marking a significant turn in both her personal and professional life.
Crisis and Comeback
Despite her earlier success, Slutty Vegan encountered a corporate overhead of approximately $10 million, leading Cole to momentarily transfer ownership to an assignee in February 2022. However, after a brief hiatus, she repurchased the business on March 28, 2022, signaling her fierce commitment to the brand.
Lessons Learned
Cole has acknowledged the challenges of rapid expansion, reflecting that such pursuits became overwhelming. This experience has taught her the critical lesson of remaining actively engaged in her business operations. Embracing this newfound perspective, she views this chapter for Slutty Vegan as one defined by new rules and new intentions.
Health Scare
Her journey took an unexpected turn when she was involved in a serious car accident. While driving at 70 mph, a mattress unexpectedly collided with her windshield, providing a shocking reality check. Following this harrowing experience, Cole took the necessary time to reflect on her life and business priorities.
Restructuring and Future Vision
Under her leadership, Slutty Vegan is undergoing a major restructuring. This includes the implementation of new leadership, a focus on brand partnerships, and exploration into international markets—especially targeting regions like Dubai and Africa. With aspirations to evolve into Slutty Vegan 2.0, Cole is dedicated to preserving the essence of her brand while innovating operational flows and curating a refreshed menu.
Community and Customer Engagement
Currently, Slutty Vegan operates eight vibrant locations across the United States, including five in Georgia and one in Alabama, Maryland, and New York. Cole emphasizes the importance of enhancing customer engagement through community-oriented initiatives and fostering authentic connections among her clientele.
Personal Reflections and Growth
Throughout this tumultuous period, Cole faced a wave of emotions, including grief, sadness, and fear. However, she has emerged with resilience, focusing on her growth as an entrepreneur. Her ventures also extend beyond food, with the vision of establishing Slutty Vegan as a comprehensive lifestyle brand.
Building a Legacy
In partnership with her husband, Derrick Hayes, who owns Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks and leads the Hayes Hospitality Group, Cole aspires to cultivate a more extensive food empire. Furthermore, she is releasing a motivational book titled I Hope You Fail, which delves into transforming failures into stepping stones toward success.
Conclusion
As Pinky Cole takes Slutty Vegan into a promising new chapter, her journey continues to inspire many in the entrepreneurial world, showcasing the incredible strength and determination required to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Pinky Cole Reveals She Almost Lost Her Business
- People: Pinky Cole Has a New Outlook After Losing Her Business
- 11 Alive: Pinky Cole Buys Business Back
- AJC: Pinky Cole Speaks About the Future of Slutty Vegan
- Eater Atlanta: Slutty Vegan Closes Spelman College Location
- Wikipedia: Pinky Cole
- Google Search: Slutty Vegan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Culture
