Slutty Vegan Owner Pinky Cole has been on a tumultuous journey, experiencing the highs of running a successful business and the lows of facing life-threatening challenges. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Pinky shared the harrowing experience that led her to reevaluate her priorities and make significant changes in her life.
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The incident that shook Pinky to her core occurred when she was driving at 70 mph in Atlanta and a mattress flew into her windshield, causing a near-fatal accident. Reflecting on the event, Pinky expressed how it made her realise the importance of re-evaluating her priorities and taking a step back from her fast-paced life. This incident served as a wake-up call for Pinky, prompting her to reassess her approach to both her business and personal life.
Despite her initial success with the popular fast-food chain Slutty Vegan, Pinky faced financial setbacks that ultimately led to the loss of her business. The challenges she encountered forced her to confront the reality of her situation and make the difficult decision to restructure the company, relinquishing control and ownership to an assignee. This marked a turning point for Pinky, pushing her to navigate through uncharted territory and find a way forward.
Pinky’s resilience and determination shone through as she embarked on a new chapter in her entrepreneurial journey. Through strategic planning and a steadfast mindset, she managed to buy back her company under a new name, “Ain’t Nobody Coming to See You, Otis.” This bold move signified Pinky’s unwavering belief in her vision and her ability to overcome challenges with grace and resilience.
Looking ahead, Pinky is focused on the reimagined version of Slutty Vegan, which she dubs “Slutty Vegan 2.0.” With a renewed sense of purpose and determination, she aims to expand the food chain globally and create new opportunities for others to become a part of the brand’s success story. Her vision for the future includes scaling Slutty Vegan beyond the US and exploring international markets for growth and expansion.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavours, Pinky is also diversifying her business portfolio with ventures like Bar Vegan, a tapas and cocktail bar, alongside her husband’s business, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. Together, they are building the Hayes Hospitality Group, with a vision to create a robust food empire that fosters community and connection through culinary experiences.
As Pinky navigates through the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring business owners. Her unwavering determination, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to her vision highlight the transformative power of perseverance and self-belief. Amidst setbacks and uncertainties, Pinky Cole’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream big.