Mike Tyson invests in vegan fast-food company

Mike Tyson invests in Mr. Charlie’s, backing its global expansion of plant-based fast food with a focus on health and second-chance hiring.

Mike Tyson, former heavyweight boxing champion and entrepreneur, has invested in the plant-based fast food chain Mr. Charlie’s Told Me So (TMS). Made through Tyson’s holding company, Carma HoldCo, this investment is expected to significantly boost Mr. Charlie’s expansion plans, paving the way for a broader US and international presence.

Known for his advocacy of veganism and plant-based eating, Tyson is helping drive the next phase of growth for the restaurant, which has already gained attention for its unique take on fast food and its social impact initiatives.

Tyson’s involvement signals a new chapter for Mr. Charlie’s, which has carved out a niche in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector with its entirely plant-based menu. Mr. Charlie’s not only offers vegan alternatives to classic fast food but also emphasizes giving second chances by hiring individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those overcoming homelessness or addiction.

This mission resonates deeply with Tyson, who has spoken publicly about his own experiences with personal transformation. “Mr. Charlie’s mission to help and hire those from the homeless community is something that I am truly passionate about, and I look forward to helping many people and communities with the expansion of Mr. Charlie’s across the globe,” he stated.

Franchise opportunities

The investment comes at a time when Mr. Charlie’s is looking to expand its franchise operations. The brand, which already operates locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sydney, is preparing to enter new US markets and international territories through its franchise model. Tyson’s backing is expected to accelerate this rollout, with franchise opportunities becoming available to developers in key regions.

Tyson’s involvement in the plant-based movement isn’t new. In 2022, his TYSON 2.0 cannabis brand launched the popular “Holy Ears” THC and Delta 8 vegan edibles, an homage to the infamous incident with boxer Evander Holyfield.

Tyson, who was vegan for several years, continues to advocate for plant-based lifestyles, and his investment in Mr. Charlie’s underscores his commitment to expanding access to plant-based food. “Mr. Charlie’s is a natural choice for Carma Holdco, as we diversify into the food industry. I very much believe in the healthy benefits of a vegan diet and was a strict vegan for many years,” Tyson continued.

Mr. Charlie’s co-founders Taylor McKinnon and Aaron Haxton also view Tyson’s partnership as a natural fit. “Carma’s experience in building disruptive brands like TYSON 2.0 is exactly what we need to take Mr. Charlie’s to the next level,” McKinnon said.

The future of Mr. Charlie’s

Mr. Charlie’s is expected to scale rapidly with Tyson’s backing, leveraging its strong brand identity and unique business model to attract franchisees. The company has already partnered with data-driven platforms like Uber Eats and Postmates to identify ideal locations for expansion, allowing for faster and more efficient market penetration.

Adam Wilks, Carma HoldCo’s CEO, noted that the QSR industry is ready for disruption, saying, “The QSR space is ripe for innovation, and Mr. Charlie’s combination of bold brand identity, crave-worthy menu, and scalable business model makes it a compelling opportunity for franchisees.”

“Both Carma and Mr. Charlie’s are about creating meaningful change—whether it’s providing second chances to our employees or delivering plant-based food in a fun and novel way. Together, we’re setting the stage for a new kind of fast food—one that’s healthier for people, better for the planet, and deeply connected to our communities,” concluded McKinnon.

Original source: https://vegconomist.com