We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nnamdi Arinze. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nnamdi below.
Nnamdi, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later
I was elated to see this question selected, as it’s a topic I’ve often contemplated. Having been raised as a vegan back in the early 1980s, I’ve witnessed the trajectory of veganism resembling that of an airplane taking off and landing, with relatively few passengers on board. In 2021, Vegan Wangs, located at www.veganwings.com, was founded in Atlanta, Georgia. It’s worth noting that earlier vegan establishments primarily offered full meals with tofu as a staple. Subsequently, soy-based Asian eateries gained traction. Now, there’s a prominent vegan brand with over 100 million followers, setting the stage for the emergence of other brands.
Although I resided in New York from 2017 to 2020, I believe the optimal time to establish Vegan Wangs would have been around 2016 or 2017. I have a few reasons for this perspective. Typically, it takes 2 to 3 years for a standard restaurant to become profitable. Moreover, brands like Slutty Vegan, established in 2018, have propelled veganism firmly into the mainstream. Unlike the competition between McDonald’s and Burger King, Slutty Vegan currently faces no direct, immediate rivals.
Beyond being the pioneer in multi-location vegan hamburger and fries brands, the next most beloved comfort food is fried chicken or chicken wings, which is precisely where Vegan Wangs fits in. Considering the reception and mainstream appeal of veganism around 2015, I believe 2016-2017 would have been an opportune time to launch Vegan Wangs.
But 2021 will work too!
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m Nnamdi, the passionate founder behind Vegan Wangs, a trailblazing venture in the Atlanta vegan culinary scene. My foray into this business was driven by a deep commitment to veganism and a desire to create a product that not only caters to vegans but tantalizes the taste buds of all food lovers.
At Vegan Wangs, we specialize in crafting exceptional, soy-free vegan chicken wings. These aren’t your ordinary vegan offerings; our wings are wheat-based and known for their extraordinary crunch and flavor-packed sauces, widely appreciated even by those who typically eat meat. This venture was born from my own vegan lifestyle and a vision to offer a unique culinary experience that bridges the gap between vegan and mainstream palates.
What truly sets Vegan Wangs apart is our relentless pursuit of culinary excellence and innovation in vegan cuisine. We started in a ghost kitchen, navigating the complexities and challenges of the competitive food industry. Our determination and resourcefulness led us to a shared kitchen space, enabling us to establish Vegan Wangs as a significant player in the vegan food market.
I’m thrilled to announce that Vegan Wangs is on the cusp of an exciting new chapter – we are scheduled to open our first brick-and-mortar location in February 2024. This milestone is not just about expanding our physical presence; it’s a testament to our growth, our customers’ support, and our vision for the future of vegan dining.
To our potential clients, followers, and fans, know that Vegan Wangs is more than a brand – it’s a movement. We’re here to challenge perceptions about vegan food and to offer mouth-watering, sustainable options. Our forthcoming brick-and-mortar location is a step towards making delicious vegan food more accessible and mainstream.
Join us in this journey of culinary innovation. Whether you’re a vegan enthusiast or a curious foodie, Vegan Wangs invites you to experience a new world of flavors. Let’s celebrate the joy of plant-based eating together and look forward to our exciting new venture in February 2024!
How did you build your audience on social media?
Building your presence on social media is a multi-layered and never-ending process. For Vegan Wangs having and implementing visual communication assets are the best. If you are a celebrity or public figure, that’s an asset. Having a compelling straight-to-the-point video asset that communicates your product or service is also very powerful.
For us, the quality of our product before a customer and after a customer experience is consistent and in high contrast to other Vegan Wing products.
We have yet to implement our full social media strategy, but what we have for now has landed us in publications like Black Enterprise and publications like VegNews.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
“Absolutely, books and various other informative resources providing detailed steps, case studies, and inspirational insights have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey. Among the many influential books that have molded my approach to both social and business interactions, a couple stand out distinctly.
Firstly, ‘Think and Grow Rich’ by Napoleon Hill has been a cornerstone in my understanding of success and personal development. This book delves into the power of personal beliefs and the role they play in achieving success. Hill’s principles, based on his study of affluent individuals, emphasize the significance of setting clear goals, persistence, and the impact of a positive mental attitude. It’s more than just a guide to accumulating wealth; it’s a blueprint for cultivating a mindset geared toward achieving personal goals.
Secondly, ‘Propaganda: The Public Mind in the Making’ by Edward Bernays has profoundly influenced my understanding of media and public relations. Bernays, often considered the father of public relations, explores the complex ways in which opinions and behaviors are shaped by messages in the media. This book uncovers the intricacies of influence and control in society, highlighting the power of propaganda in shaping public perception. It’s an insightful read that offers a deeper understanding of the dynamics of communication and influence in both public and business spheres.
Both these books have not only expanded my knowledge but also refined my strategic approach in business and social environments.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.veganwings.com
- Instagram: veganwangs
- Facebook: veganwangs