Citing staff shortage, Brandon’s Vegan Deli closes

Plant-based folks that reside in the greater Brandon area will now have to travel to get their stacked vegan burgers and sandwiches.

After repeatedly posting hiring ads over the last few weeks, Brandon’s Vegan Deli—owned and operated by the same folks who run its other locations in Ybor City, Sarasota and Dunedin—has unexpectedly closed.

“With an unimaginable amount of sadness we must inform you we have been unable to restart operations and will now be placing this location for sale,” its Instagram reads. “Email inquiries to [email protected]; we thank everyone for their support and love during our time here.”

On March 30, Brandon Vegan Deli posted on Facebook that it was closed until further notice due to staffing issues. But what was supposed to be a temporary closure  unfortunately turned into a permanent one.

The deli’s manager also confirmed on social media that its Brandon location—at 859 Lithia Pinecrest Rd.— closed because the business couldn’t find enough staff. Brandon's Vegan Deli stated that the starting rate for a new hires was $12-$15 an hour, plus tips based on availability and experience.

Brandon’s Vegan Deli celebrated its grand opening in January 2021, while its third location in Ybor City debuted just a few months later.

Last year, Creative Loafing reported on an upcoming Pinellas Park Vegan Deli location, but there have been no recent developments on that announcement. Its Instagram still states "coming soon" with no slated debut date.

In addition to popular sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wraps on its menu, the remaining locations in Sarasota, Dunedin and Ybor City sell select grocery items like vegan cheese, candy, frozen meals and homemade deli-style “meats” by the half-pound.

For more information on the remaining three Tampa Bay Vegan Delis, follow their Facebook pages at @yborvegandeli, @dunedinvegandeli and @sarasotavegandeli.