World-Famous Plant-Based Burger Brand Deepens Its Ohio Footprint as Existing Franchise Group Reinvests for a Third Market

ATLANTA, Sept. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Slutty Vegan, the world-famous, woman-owned plant-based burger brand founded by entrepreneur, author and reality-television star Pinky Cole Hayes, has officially signed a franchise agreement to bring the rapidly growing concept to Cincinnati, marking the brand’s third market in the state of Ohio.

The agreement was signed by Soul Republic Hospitality Group, led by founder Akin Affrica, the same operator behind Slutty Vegan’s Columbus and Cleveland locations. This reinvestment into an additional location builds on the strength of the partnership and rising demand for the brand across the state. As the company continues to scale with experienced operators, Slutty Vegan has prioritized franchise partners who understand both the business fundamentals and the culture behind the brand.

“Cincinnati was always part of the plan for us,” said Akin Affrica, Founder of Soul Republic Hospitality Group. “After signing on for Cleveland and Columbus, we saw firsthand how much demand there is for this brand in Ohio. Adding Cincinnati was an easy decision. We know the market, we know the guest, and we are ready to bring that same energy here.”

Slutty Vegan’s Columbus and Cleveland locations are anticipated to open in the fall of 2026. Additional details on the Cincinnati location, including its address and opening timeline, will be made public as the buildout progresses.

“When a franchise partner comes back to invest in a third market, that further compounds the fact that our brand is valuable and in demand,” said Pinky Cole Hayes, Founder and CEO of Slutty Vegan. “Ohio is primed for a concept like Slutty vegan, and Cincinnati rounds out the top three markets in the state.”

Since launching in Atlanta in 2018, Slutty Vegan has grown from a viral burger concept into a nationally recognized brand known for bold flavors, high-energy customer experiences, and community impact. The brand’s founder, Pinky Cole Hayes, is a best-selling author and philanthropist who built the brand from a single food truck into a cultural phenomenon. Cole Hayes has continued her rise to stardom this year as a cast member of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta, bringing her boldness and business savvy to one of television’s most-watched franchises and introducing Slutty Vegan to millions of new fans.

The company’s move into franchising marks growing demand for the brand across the country and a strategic focus on sustainable expansion in high-opportunity markets with experienced operators. For more information about the Slutty Vegan franchise opportunity, visit sluttyveganatl.com/franchise. To learn more about Soul Republic Hospitality Group and its restaurants, visit soulrepublichg.com or connect on Instagram at @sluttyveganohio and @soulrepublichospitalitygroup.

About Slutty Vegan
Founded in Atlanta in 2018 by visionary entrepreneur Aisha “Pinky” Cole Hayes, Slutty Vegan is a wildly popular, plant-based burger concept revolutionizing the fast-casual dining experience. Famous for its bold marketing, decadent vegan creations, and signature “Slut Sauce,” the brand is on a mission to challenge the reputation of veganism as uptight and pleasureless. Slutty Vegan operates locations across the United States, continuing to expand its footprint and redefine the future of comfort food. For more information, visit sluttyveganatl.com/franchise/.

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SOURCE Slutty Vegan