Business Spotlight

Why Some Vegan Businesses Struggle While Others Thrive

Being vegan does not guarantee business success, mission alone does not pay rent, and passion alone does not create retention. Drawing on 28 years in communications and brand strategy, Sean A. Russell breaks down why some vegan businesses stall while others last.

Vegans Explore Podcast

Episode 116 · Feb 25, 2026 · 7 min

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The Common Pitfalls

Struggling businesses tend to focus only on the food, with no email list or loyalty program turning a single visit into a real relationship, underestimate marketing by treating random Instagram posts as a strategy, and build emotionally rather than structurally, with no documented processes or cash reserve plan.

What the Thriving Ones Do

Businesses that last build community rather than just customers, collect emails and diversify revenue through catering, events, and subscriptions, and treat themselves as media companies whose story people can actually find. During downturns, direct communication channels, tiered offerings, and real local community relationships are what keep customers loyal when delivery fees rise and algorithms shift.