News Summary
Shipley Do-Nuts has officially been acquired by Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, signaling a new chapter for the beloved Texas donut chain. Known for its nearly century-old family recipe, Shipley plans to expand significantly, with over 40 new locations opening soon and 200 more in the pipeline. This acquisition marks a promising future for the brand as it aims to strengthen its presence across the Southeast U.S., all while maintaining its traditional offerings.
Texas – Shipley Do-Nuts, a cherished donut shop with nearly a century-long history, has been acquired by California’s Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP). The acquisition was disclosed on Monday and marks the transition of ownership from Peak Rock Capital to LLCP.
Founded in 1936 in Houston, Texas, by Lawrence Shipley Sr., Shipley Do-Nuts has grown significantly, boasting over 375 locations across 14 states. The brand is particularly known for its popular kolaches and glazed donuts, which draw in a loyal customer base. The exact financial terms of the deal involving the acquisition were not publicly released.
Under its previous ownership by Peak Rock Capital, Shipley Do-Nuts enjoyed a period of consistent growth, achieving 18 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth. This expansion included entry into new markets, which laid the groundwork for future development plans. Following the acquisition by LLCP, Shipley Do-Nuts is set to further its growth trajectory, with the intention of reaching a wider audience by capitalizing on LLCP’s extensive experience in the franchise food sector.
LLCP has a solid history of investing in successful franchise food brands, including popular chains like Tropical Smoothie Cafe and Nothing Bundt Cakes. The partnership with LLCP is expected to enhance Shipley Do-Nuts’ strategic growth initiatives, helping the brand remain competitive in a rapidly evolving food market.
Shipley Do-Nuts will maintain its operations from its Houston headquarters, with its current executive team remaining in place. There is an emphasis on continuity as the brand seeks to expand its footprint while staying true to its roots in Houston. The CEO of Shipley has expressed confidence that LLCP’s franchise expertise will bolster the company’s ambitions to grow without compromising the quality of its products.
In line with its growth strategy, Shipley plans to open over 40 new locations by the end of the year, with an exciting development pipeline that includes another 200 units. Notably, the company intends to launch its first-ever location in Missouri, indicating its commitment to expanding beyond its traditional markets. The brand aims to reinforce its presence in the Southeast U.S. and secure its position as a leading player in that region.
Shipley Do-Nuts’ heritage traces back to a small stand that featured a family recipe for glazed donuts. Over the years, the company has successfully expanded its offerings to include traditional Czech pastries known as kolaches, which now contribute significantly to overall sales. This blend of traditional and innovative food offerings has positioned Shipley Do-Nuts favorably within the market, appealing to a diverse customer base.
The transition to LLCP symbolizes a pivotal moment in Shipley Do-Nuts’ evolution, moving from a family-owned establishment to a notable nationally recognized franchise. The company remains dedicated to its mission of serving freshly made products and staying true to the original recipes that have defined its success over the decades.
As Shipley Do-Nuts embarks on this new chapter with LLCP, the brand remains focused on expanding strategically while maintaining its dedication to quality and community roots. The donut chain’s growth plans suggest that it is poised not only for geographical expansion but also for enduring success as it enters an exciting new era.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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