by Jeroslyn JoVonn
Could 21, 2025
And the rising firm achieved a major first within the course of.
Massive Dave’s Cheesesteak’s is the primary majority Black-owned model to earn a spot on Quick Informal’s Prime 100 Movers and Shakers, touchdown at #6.
It’s a significant accomplishment for founder Derrick Hayes, who launched the corporate out of a gasoline station.
“As one of many youngest Black males to ever make the Prime 100 “Movers & Shakers” listing, the influence and inspiration that this award can have on future entrepreneurs who come from the same background just isn’t misplaced on me,” Hayes mentioned in a press release. “It’s an honor that my ardour and function for this model is being acknowledged, and I couldn’t do it with out my unimaginable crew and valued franchise companions.”
Massive Dave’s earned its spot on the Quick Informal Prime 100 listing after a tricky 12 months.
Hayes was compelled to close down and relocate the Atlanta headquarters resulting from a extreme flood. All through the method, Hayes remained open in regards to the challenges, receiving an outpouring of assist from followers as he labored to reopen.
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The West Philly native named the award-winning meals franchise after his late father, Derrick Hayes Sr. Massive Dave’s acquired its first massive break when Grammy-winning artist and fellow Philadelphian, Eve, gave it a shout out after visiting his unique location.
Since launching in 2014 from that 700-square-foot gasoline station in Dunwoody, Georgia, Hayes has grown the model independently throughout the Southeast, together with Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina, in addition to into main sports activities venues like Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Orlando’s Kia Heart.
The aim is for Massive Dave’s to hit 100 areas by the tip of 2025.
Awarded yearly since 2006, the Prime 100 award honors the highest 100 manufacturers and 25 executives who’re main the quick informal restaurant business. View the complete listing right here.
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