Duck Donuts ready for global expansion | Global Franchise
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Duck Donuts ready for global expansion

North America

Duck Donuts ready for global expansion

2022 momentum heats up with new franchise agreements and shop openings

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Duck Donuts makes life just a little sweeter with fresh, customizable donuts and treats for every time of day. With unique donut combinations and product offerings such as donut sundaes and donut-topped milkshakes, and simple operations, their franchise opportunity has become an international sensation. Maybe it’s the magic of made-to-order cake donuts, maybe it’s the lovable brand, but most likely it’s all that and then some.

Duck Donuts was founded in the beachside town of Duck, North Carolina, and has embraced the laid-back lifestyle that comes with its coastal roots. Since franchising began in 2013, the company now has 109 open franchise locations in 23 states and two locations in Puerto Rico. Internationally, Duck Donuts has two operating locations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Burlington, Canada, and is soon to open two locations in Cairo, Egypt.

Donuts have long been a delicious staple in American culture. Universally loved, donuts are a sweet pick-me-up for any time of day. Duck Donuts is a fresh spin on the beloved donut shop, offering guests something truly special with customizable cake donuts for every craving, business meeting and special occasion.

Global growth

The popular made-to-order donut franchise is on the fast track to growth. Since the start of 2022, Duck Donuts has signed 27 franchise agreements to bring 34 shops to new and existing markets across the United States. The company’s international presence is also growing. Duck Donuts recently signed an area development agreement, awarding the rights to develop in Pakistan and Thailand. The Great Restaurant Group Co. LTD., is set to open 10 locations throughout Thailand over the next five years. The first location, which is expected to open in late 2022, will be in the country’s capital, Bangkok.

“International expansion is a key component in our growth strategy and we are delighted to be introducing our warm, delicious and made-to-order donuts to those throughout the world,” said Betsy Hamm, Duck Donuts CEO. “Our vision is to serve an edible ring of happiness around the globe, and with each opening, we are one step closer to achieving this.”

Unmatched franchisee support

From the process of market research to site selection, construction and design to then operations, training and marketing support, the corporate team works closely with each franchise owner to help them succeed. As a franchisee, one can expect hands-on training, training for shop managers and on-site support for the grand opening.

Once a shop is open for business, franchisees will continue to build a relationship with their dedicated franchise business consultant, who is there to offer guidance and support. The company also has a full operations team working to provide the best ingredients at the best prices, with a focus on innovation.

Franchise partners will be included in robust corporate marketing efforts generating brand awareness and sales, including content development, digital advertising, loyalty rewards program, and have access to a local marketing toolbox to support local marketing activities.

One of the added benefits of being part of a franchise system is having support and access to fellow franchisees who share a common vision. And for Duck Donuts, it’s to serve a warm, edible ring of happiness around the globe

At a glance

Year established: 2013 (first locations opened in 2007)
Number of franchised outlets: 106
Company-operated units: 1
Location of units: United States, Puerto Rico, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Canada, Egypt, Thailand, Pakistan
Franchise fee: Based on territory and number of units Area and master franchise opportunities available
Build-out options: Free standing, in line, malls, food truck, airports and stadiums
For international opportunities, contact: Marcel Portmann, mportmann@duckdonuts.com
For US opportunities, contact: Gary Hitterdal, ghitterdal@duckdonuts.com
For Canada opportunities, contact: Costas Siountres, csiountres@duckdonuts.com

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