Krispy Kreme and McDonald’s have revealed plans for a collaboration that will see Krispy Kreme products available at McDonald’s locations across the United States. The partnership is set to begin rolling out later this year, with availability expected at participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide by the end of 2026.
Krispy Kreme’s President and CEO, Josh Charlesworth, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it would provide customers with unprecedented daily access to their glazed, filled, and frosted treats. He noted that the collaboration would effectively double Krispy Kreme’s points of access by the end of 2026.
McDonald’s views the partnership as an opportunity to tap into new business opportunities within its breakfast category and sweet items offerings. The fast-food giant plans to offer three Krispy Kreme doughnut varieties — original glazed, chocolate iced with sprinkles, and a filled chocolate iced — both individually and in boxes of six, while supplies last.
This partnership between Krispy Kreme and McDonald’s is not the first of its kind in the restaurant industry. Other chains, such as Taco Bell and Wendy’s, have previously collaborated with popular food brands to introduce new menu items.
Krispy Kreme has a history of partnering with various businesses, with its doughnuts being sold at retailers like Walmart and Kroger in addition to its own stores. The company operates in 35 countries and boasts over 14,000 points of access through its own shops, retail partnerships, and e-commerce business.
Following the announcement of the McDonald’s deal, Krispy Kreme’s shares surged by nearly 30%, indicating investor optimism about the partnership’s potential. Financial details of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed, and both Krispy Kreme and McDonald’s have refrained from commenting further on the matter.