Krispy Kreme Is BACK In Minnesota?! What To Know!
Is the sweet scent of glazed doughnuts about to waft through the streets of Minnesota once more? After a 16-year absence, Krispy Kreme, the beloved purveyor of sugary delights, is poised for a comeback, promising a revival of a classic treat for the state's donut devotees.
The nostalgia for Krispy Kreme runs deep in Minnesota. From 2002 to 2008, the Maple Grove location offered a taste of the iconic brand, but the story, like many a sweet treat, eventually came to an end. The departure, however, left a void, a craving that lingered in the hearts (and stomachs) of many Minnesotans. The closure of the last Minnesota store in 2008 marked the end of an era, a period that held the promise of fresh, hot doughnuts.
The anticipation has been building, and the latest news is a sugary balm for those who have been patiently awaiting the return of the iconic glazed ring. While specific details are still emerging, the signs point towards a renewed presence in the state. The St. Paul Business Journal broke the news, igniting excitement among the donut-loving community. The announcement, coupled with the company's broader strategy to expand its reach through partnerships, suggests that Minnesota is indeed back on the Krispy Kreme radar.
| Company Name | Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. |
| Industry | Food and Beverage, Retail |
| Headquarters | Charlotte, North Carolina, USA |
| Founded | July 13, 1937, Winston-Salem, North Carolina |
| Founder | Vernon Rudolph |
| CEO | Josh Charlesworth (as of late 2023) |
| Key Products | Doughnuts (Original Glazed, various flavors), Coffee, Beverages |
| Key Services | Retail Sales, Franchise Operations |
| Geographic Presence | Global |
| Key Markets | United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and others |
| Major Competitors | Dunkin', local and regional doughnut shops |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 2,700 (as of 2023) |
| Website | Krispy Kreme Official Website |
The path back to Minnesota hasn't been straightforward. After the last store shuttered, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued a cease-and-desist order against Krispy Kreme, related to practices during the period of decline in the Minneapolis area. It was a time of introspection for the company, and the decisions made then have clearly shaped the approach to the current comeback.
The news has been met with a wave of anticipation. The initial strategy focuses on accessibility. Krispy Kreme has announced a nationwide partnership with McDonald's, with the goal of making doughnuts available at all McDonald's locations by the end of 2026. This expansion is a key element of the company's comeback strategy.
The yearning for a Krispy Kreme fix has pushed many residents to neighboring states. Those living in Minnesota, seeking a taste of the familiar, have been making pilgrimages to Iowa and Wisconsin, where locations still operate. A simple trip for a dozen glazed rings is a testament to the enduring appeal of the brand.
The return is not just about the donuts; its about the experience. For many, a Krispy Kreme doughnut is more than just a pastry, it's a nostalgic link to happier times, a treat that is associated with celebrations, and everyday moments. The brand's emphasis on freshness, with "hot and fresh now" signs a familiar sight, has cemented its place in the hearts of customers.
The company is looking at the calendar with renewed optimism. While the projects opening date is not yet fully confirmed. The potential opening date of January 1st, 2025, listed on some online forms, is just a tentative date. This is a clear sign that the company is carefully planning its return to the state.
Before the recent announcements, a college student from Champlin, Minnesota, Jayson Gonzalez, took the initiative to provide a supply of doughnuts to his community. He would drive 270 miles to a Krispy Kreme store in Iowa, pack his car with boxes, and return to Minnesota, supplying the desire for the brand. Initially, the company told him to stop his operations; it then recognized the unmet need and made him a sole proprietor, offering a supply of doughnuts. His story highlights the demand and the entrepreneurial spirit of the community.
Even a special gesture from the company acknowledged the effort to provide its products to eager customers. Krispy Kreme, at a conference in Chicago, partnered with Daimler North America, which gifted Gonzalez a brand new Mercedes Sprinter van to help in his delivery efforts. This story encapsulates the eagerness for Krispy Kreme doughnuts in Minnesota.
The companys menu is also a source of attraction. The doughnuts come in diverse flavors, which include classics such as the Original Glazed and seasonal specialties. The availability of coffees, drinks, bagels, and oatmeals enhances the dining experience.
The rollout of Krispy Kreme doughnuts at McDonald's will begin later in 2024, and with all McDonalds locations in the U.S. offering Krispy Kreme doughnuts by the end of 2026, consumers will have more options.
The anticipation for the return of Krispy Kreme is growing. The combination of expanding through McDonald's and the potential for new standalone stores suggests a robust strategy. Minnesota is poised to welcome back a familiar friend, promising fresh doughnuts to residents. Whether it's a quick purchase at McDonald's or the return of a local shop, Minnesotans can soon look forward to the sweet taste of Krispy Kreme.
