Recently on "AutoNsider" with host Daryl Killian spoke with founder of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks Mr. Derrick Hayes about his inspiring story, highlighting the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the determination that fueled his rise to success.
TO LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW, CLICK HERE.
Mr. Hayes began his business venture inside a Shell gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia. Although many were skeptical about the location, considering it was far from the city, Mr. Hayes saw potential. He believed that by offering a top-quality product and fostering genuine connections with the community, he could build a loyal customer base. His persistence paid off, and over time, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks became a well-known brand in the area.
Along the way, Mr. Hayes encountered significant personal challenges, including a severe back injury that caused debilitating pain and dysfunction. Despite these setbacks, Mr. Hayes remained resolute in his pursuit of success, working tirelessly to scale his business. He built a strong team to help him navigate the complexities of running a restaurant franchise, ultimately turning Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks into a thriving national brand.
One of the pivotal moments in Mr. Hayes' journey was his decision to launch a food truck. The mobile business allowed him to reach new customers at events such as the Atlanta Falcons’ training camps, which led to a partnership with Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The success of the food truck helped Mr. Hayes secure additional brick-and-mortar locations and national recognition for his brand.
Today, Dr. Hayes is preparing for the grand opening of a new Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks location at 300 Marietta Street in Atlanta. The new store features exciting additions to the menu, including authentic Philly pretzels and oversized cheesesteaks. The design of the space reflects Dr. Hayes’ Philadelphia roots, with features like a large Liberty Bell and cheesesteaks hanging from the ceiling. The grand opening, scheduled for noon, is a significant milestone in Dr. Hayes’ ongoing expansion.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.