McDonald’s (NYSE: MCD) and Krispy Kreme (NASDAQ: DNUT) are teaming up to bring the latter’s selected doughnuts to the fast-food chain.
Following a successful trial run at over 160 McDonald’s restaurants in Kentucky and Indiana, the two iconic brands have announced plans to expand the availability of Krispy Kreme doughnuts nationwide by the end of 2026.
The partnership has already caused a stir in the market. Krispy Kreme’s stocks surged nearly 40% to $17.35 per share by the end of trading on Tuesday, marking the highest share price since January 2022. Meanwhile, McDonald’s shares remained steady at around $278 per share.
This collaboration adds to a growing trend of fast-food chains joining forces with popular snack makers. Notably, Wendy’s and Cinnabon introduced a new dessert in February, while Subway partnered with Cinnabon and Auntie Anne’s to enhance its menu offerings in January.
The move will significantly increase the accessibility of fresh Krispy Kreme doughnuts or cookies, with a phased rollout set to commence in the latter half of this year. By 2026, participating McDonald’s locations nationwide will offer Krispy Kreme treats, more than doubling the current availability.
With approximately 13,500 U.S. locations, 95 percent of which are independently operated, McDonald’s provides a vast platform for Krispy Kreme’s expansion. Krispy Kreme’s chief executive, Josh Charlesworth, previously informed investors that the company’s existing supply chain network could cater to 6,000 McDonald’s restaurants. To support this ambitious venture, Krispy Kreme aims to strengthen its infrastructure.
Krispy Kreme’s Original Glazed, Chocolate Iced with Sprinkles, and Chocolate Iced Kreme Filled doughnuts will be delivered to McDonald’s locations daily. Customers can buy them individually or in boxes of six, as confirmed by Guillaume Huin, McDonald’s senior marketing director.
Huin also expressed plans to introduce a Krispy Kreme Doughnut x McDonald’s shake combo. The limited partnership, initially launched in October 2022 for a small-scale test at over 160 McDonald’s locations in Kentucky, will continue in the Louisville and Lexington areas.
Krispy Kreme has been exploring similar ventures internationally, including a test run with Costco in select markets.
Information for this briefing was found via The Washington Post and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
