50 Facts About Krispy Kreme

Founding and Early Years

Krispy Kreme's journey began with a single recipe and a lot of determination. Here's how it all started.

1. Krispy Kreme was founded by Vernon Rudolph in 1937. He bought a secret yeast-raised doughnut recipe from a New Orleans French chef and started selling doughnuts to local grocery stores in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

2. The secret recipe is kept in a vault in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Only a select few have access to this coveted recipe, which includes a unique blend of ingredients that give Krispy Kreme doughnuts their signature flavor and texture.

3. Vernon Rudolph sold his car to buy a donut-making machine. This allowed him to start baking doughnuts in a rented building, marking the humble beginnings of Krispy Kreme.

4. The first store opened on July 13, 1937. Located in historic Old Salem, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Rudolph cut a hole in the wall to sell hot doughnuts directly to passersby.

Expansion and Innovation

As Krispy Kreme grew, so did its innovations and expansions. Let's look at how the brand evolved.

5. By the early 1950s, Krispy Kreme had expanded to a small chain of stores. Each store made its doughnuts from scratch, but the results were inconsistent, leading to the development of a mix plant and distribution system.

6. Krispy Kreme focused on automating the doughnut-making process in the 1950s. They invented and built their own equipment, improving consistency and efficiency.

7. During the 1960s, Krispy Kreme stores began to have a consistent design. The hallmark green tile roofs and heritage road signs helped establish a recognizable identity.

8. Vernon Rudolph died in 1973. After his death, the company was reorganized and sold to Beatrice Foods Company in 1976.

9. In 1982, a small group of early franchisees purchased Krispy Kreme back from Beatrice Foods. This move marked a renewed focus on the hot doughnut experience and further expansion.

Going Global

Krispy Kreme didn't just stop at national success; it went international. Here's how the brand spread worldwide.

10. Krispy Kreme began to expand outside the Southeast in the 1990s. The first store outside the Southeast opened in New York City in 1996, followed by California in 1999.

11. The company turned 60 in 1997 and was recognized as a 20th-century American icon. Company artifacts were donated to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.

12. Krispy Kreme went international in 2001. The first store outside North America opened in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

13. By 2016, Krispy Kreme had over 129 stores in the Asia-Pacific region. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and India saw significant growth, with the first store in India opening in Bangalore in 2013.

Unique Collaborations and Offerings

Krispy Kreme has always been about more than just doughnuts. Check out some of their unique collaborations and offerings.

14. In 2010, Krispy Kreme introduced a doughnut that included the soft drink Cheerwine. This unique collaboration made the Cheerwine Kreme doughnut a limited-time offering.

15. Krispy Kreme doughnut-flavored Jelly Belly jelly beans were announced on May 25, 2017. This collaboration brought together two beloved brands to create a unique treat.

16. On August 5, 2019, Krispy Kreme released two new Reese's-branded doughnuts. The "chocolate lovers" and "peanut butter lovers" doughnuts were a hit with fans.

Community Involvement and Global Presence

Krispy Kreme is not just about doughnuts; it's about community and global reach.

17. Krispy Kreme has always been committed to giving back to the community. The company has partnered with numerous charities and supports local events and fundraisers.

18. The Digital Dozens program allows customers to support their local community. This program is a tasty way to give back while enjoying delicious doughnuts.

19. Krispy Kreme operates in over 30 countries. The company has become a global phenomenon, with people lining up for hours to get a taste of their famous doughnuts.

Signature Products and Health Initiatives

Krispy Kreme's commitment to quality and health is evident in their products and initiatives.

20. The Original Glazed doughnut is the most popular doughnut at Krispy Kreme. The recipe for the glaze changed in 2015 to include natural ingredients like vanilla and whole milk.

21. Krispy Kreme doughnuts are fried in palm oil because the company has gone trans-fat free. This decision ensures that their doughnuts are healthier and safer for consumers.

22. Krispy Kreme does not use peanut oil. This avoids common allergens, prioritizing customer safety and well-being.

Iconic Branding and Cultural Impact

Krispy Kreme's branding and cultural impact have made it a household name.

23. The Krispy Kreme logo is a red and white bowtie. This iconic symbol has become synonymous with the brand.

24. Serving Krispy Kreme doughnuts at weddings became a craze after a story in InStyle magazine's special "Weddings" issue in 2002. Couples began placing doughnut orders for wedding receptions.

25. The hole in the center of the doughnut is credited to Hanson Gregory in 1847. He suggested putting a hole in the middle to ensure the cake was fully cooked.

26. Krispy Kreme doughnuts are formed from dough extruded by air pressure. The doughnut "hole" is just an illusion created by the extrusion process.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some fun facts and trivia about Krispy Kreme that you might not know.

27. Krispy Kreme doughnuts have many celebrity fans. The brand's popularity extends beyond its loyal customer base.

28. Krispy Kreme doughnuts are kosher. This certification ensures that the doughnuts meet certain dietary standards.

29. There is an official Krispy Kreme challenge. Participants try to eat a dozen doughnuts in one sitting.

30. Leftover Krispy Kremes are made into pig feed. This creative solution reduces food waste and supports sustainable practices.

31. Krispy Kreme has approximately 1,400 retail shops worldwide. These shops are strategically located in high-traffic areas.

32. Some of the busiest stores make $20 million a year. The company sold 1.63 billion doughnuts in 2022.

33. Krispy Kreme was recognized as a 20th-century American icon. Company artifacts were donated to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.

34. Krispy Kreme owes its consistency to the Ring King, a specialized doughnut-making machine. This machine ensures every doughnut meets high standards.

35. There’s a waterfall of warm sugar glaze on top of the Original Glazed doughnut. This unique glazing process adds to the doughnut's appeal.

36. An Original Glazed doughnut takes an hour to make. The process involves careful preparation and cooking.

37. Krispy Kreme expanded significantly in the Forties and Fifties. The company opened new stores across the United States.

38. Krispy Kreme once sold pizza. Although short-lived, it shows the company's willingness to innovate.

39. Vernon Rudolph was inspired by Camel cigarettes when naming his doughnut shop. The name "Krispy Kreme" is a sensational spelling of "crispy cream."

40. Krispy Kreme doughnuts may contain potato. The exact ingredients are a closely guarded secret.

41. Krispy Kreme started as a wholesale business. The company initially sold its doughnuts to local grocery stores.

42. Krispy Kreme has become a global phenomenon. Stores in over 30 countries highlight its quality and appeal.

43. Krispy Kreme has collaborated with numerous celebrities. These collaborations often result in limited-time offerings.

44. Krispy Kreme frequently releases limited-time offerings. These special doughnuts often feature unique flavors or collaborations.

45. Krispy Kreme stores are strategically located in high-traffic areas. This ensures customers can easily find and enjoy their favorite doughnuts.

46. The Krispy Kreme logo is often referred to as a bowtie. This distinctive logo symbolizes quality and consistency.

47. Krispy Kreme stores feature green tile roofs. These iconic roofs have been part of the brand's design since the 1960s.

48. Krispy Kreme stores also feature heritage road signs. These signs add to the brand's nostalgic appeal.

49. Krispy Kreme is no longer family-owned. The company has undergone significant changes, transforming into a multinational corporation.

50. The Hot Doughnuts Now light was a game changer for Krispy Kreme. This iconic light signals when fresh doughnuts are ready, creating excitement among customers.

Krispy Kreme's Sweet Legacy

Krispy Kreme's journey from a small shop in Winston-Salem to a global doughnut powerhouse is nothing short of remarkable. Founded by Vernon Rudolph in 1937, the brand has grown to over 1,400 retail shops in more than 30 countries. Known for its Original Glazed doughnuts, Krispy Kreme has maintained its charm through innovations like the Hot Doughnuts Now light and collaborations with brands like Reese's and Jelly Belly. The company's commitment to quality, community involvement, and customer satisfaction has solidified its place as an iconic American brand. Whether you're enjoying a doughnut at a wedding or participating in the Krispy Kreme challenge, the brand's rich history and cultural impact are undeniable. Krispy Kreme continues to delight fans worldwide, proving that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the sweetest.