Slutty Vegan Founder Pinky Cole Files Chapter 11 Amid $1.4M Debt
Atlanta entrepreneur Aisha “Pinky” Cole, founder of the wildly popular Slutty Vegan brand, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing nearly $1.4 million in debt.
According to court filings, Cole owes approximately $1.2 million to the U.S. Small Business Administration and another $192,000 to the Georgia Department of Revenue.
FROM FOOD TRUCK TO FAST GROWTH
Slutty Vegan launched in 2018 as a single food truck serving plant based comfort food with bold branding. The concept quickly became a cultural phenomenon, expanding to as many as 14 locations at its peak.
However, rapid growth also brought mounting operational costs. In recent years, several Slutty Vegan locations have closed.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows a business to restructure its debts while continuing operations, rather than liquidating entirely.
LEGAL TROUBLES PILE UP
The bankruptcy filing follows additional legal challenges. In August, a landlord for two Slutty Vegan locations on Edgewood Avenue filed a lawsuit claiming more than $87,000 in unpaid rent, late fees, and interest.
Court documents indicate that the next step in the bankruptcy proceedings is a teleconference scheduled for March 12. A formal reorganization plan is due by June 12.
REALITY TV DEBUT AMID FINANCIAL RESTRUCTURING
The timing is notable.
Just this week, Cole announced she will join the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta. She will appear alongside returning cast members Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Shamea Morton Mwangi, Angela Oakley, and Kelli Ferrell. Recording artist K. Michelle is also set to debut next season.
The reality series platform could provide Cole with increased visibility as she works to restructure her business.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Chapter 11 does not necessarily signal the end of Slutty Vegan. Many companies use the process to renegotiate debt and stabilize operations.
Still, the filing marks a significant turn for a brand once celebrated as one of Atlanta’s fastest growing restaurant success stories.
As the court process unfolds and cameras begin rolling for RHOA, Pinky Cole’s next chapter will likely play out both in the courtroom and on television.