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Last summer, Atlanta’s business community faced a massive blow when a water main break caused widespread damage, forcing hundreds of small businesses to close their doors. Among them was one of the most popular Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks—a beloved restaurant founded by Derrick Hayes—locations.
RELATED: Derrick Hayes Gives The Story Behind Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks & Tapping Into Entrepreneurship
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The West Philadelphia native is no stranger to adversity or comebacks. Since his first location, a 749-square-foot space in a Shell gas station, he has built Big Dave’s (named after his late father) into a national brand.
“I always act like I’m still in that gas station…I know how hard I worked for it and how easy I can lose it,” he explained.
Derrick is building generational wealth alongside his wife, Pinky Cole, who is the owner of the Slutty Vegan empire.—both powerhouses in the restaurant industry. They have each been recognized by outlets such as PEOPLE, Black Enterprise, and Forbes (together and separately).
RELATED: Recap: Black Enterprise’s 40 Under 40 Gala Brought Out Jeezy, Ty Hunter And Creatives Of Color Next Up
For business gems, motivation, and more, tap into the full interview below!
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