When people think of donuts, Krispy Kreme often comes to mind—especially that famous Hot Light signaling freshly baked original glazed donuts. It’s no wonder thousands of entrepreneurs search how to open a Krispy Kreme franchise each year.
But here’s the truth for 2025: Krispy Kreme does not offer traditional franchising to the public in most markets.
Let’s break down what that means — and what alternatives might be a better fit for you.
🍩 Can You Still Franchise Krispy Kreme in 2025?
Short answer: Yes, but only under specific conditions.
Krispy Kreme has largely transitioned away from offering new small-scale franchise opportunities. Their current strategy focuses on:
- Corporate-owned stores in the U.S.
- Large, exclusive franchise partnerships internationally
- Expanding retail points through branded kiosks, grocery chains, and delivery
✅ If you’re an experienced multi-unit food operator with significant capital and want to open 10+ units in an international market, Krispy Kreme might still consider your application.
For everyone else, including solo entrepreneurs or small investors, Krispy Kreme is not currently accessible.
💰 Krispy Kreme Franchise Cost (If Eligible)
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | $300,000 – $1.2M+ |
| Royalty Fee | 4.5% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Net Worth Requirement | $2M+ |
| Liquid Capital | $500K+ |
Note: These figures are based on historic averages and may vary.
ℹ️ For most U.S. applicants, the franchise opportunity is not currently available.
🛑 Why Krispy Kreme Changed Its Franchising Model
- To control quality and consistency
- To focus on corporate growth and digital delivery models
- To reduce training gaps and streamline brand experience
🔁 Alternatives to Krispy Kreme Franchise
If you’re serious about owning a donut business, several strong alternatives offer more flexibility, lower investment, and similar earning potential:
1. Shipley Do-Nuts
- ✅ Over 330 stores across the U.S.
- 💰 Investment: $250K–$500K
- 🛠 Franchise Fee: $35,000
- 📍 Focused on Southern-style donuts and kolaches
2. Duck Donuts
- ✅ Made-to-order concept with custom toppings
- 💰 Investment: $350K–$600K
- 🛠 Franchise Fee: $40,000
- 📍 Popular in suburban markets and family areas
3. Daylight Donuts
- ✅ Flexible format and affordable entry
- 💰 Investment: $150K–$400K
- 🛠 Franchise Fee: $10,000
- 📍 Over 400 locations, mainly U.S. Midwest and South
4. Mochinut
- ✅ Trending mochi donut & Korean snack fusion
- 💰 Investment: $150K–$400K
- 🛠 Franchise Fee: $25,000
- 📍 120+ stores with Gen-Z appeal
👉 Compare All 30 Donut Franchises Here
📋 Can You Invest in Krispy Kreme Another Way?
Yes — through stock ownership.
Krispy Kreme Inc. (Ticker: DNUT) is publicly traded on the NYSE.
You can invest in the brand’s long-term growth without owning a physical location.
🧭 Final Thoughts
While owning a Krispy Kreme franchise in 2025 isn’t easy — or even possible for many — the donut business still offers golden opportunities through:
- Lower-cost, flexible donut franchise brands
- Trending concepts like mobile, mochi, or gourmet shops
- Expert help choosing the right fit
📞 Want Help Finding the Best Donut Franchise?
We’ve helped hundreds of investors explore the right fit based on budget, brand style, and growth goals.
👉 Contact Our Franchise Advisors
👉 Or Download the Free Donut Franchise Comparison Guide