Krispy Kreme Stock Surges on McDonald’s’ Partnership

Krispy Kreme stock climbed after its announcement that its doughnuts would be available across McDonald’s US restaurants by the end of 2026.

The North Carolina-based firm stock price increased by 4.90% to $17.35 per share in the closed trading session. The company continued to bolster in the pre-market session by rising 5.76% to $18.35 apiece.

Meanwhile, by the end of 2026, McDonald’s plans to roll out Krispy Kreme doughnuts nationwide following a successful trial in over 160 Kentucky and Indiana locations.

The collaboration joins a trend of fast-food brands partnering with snack companies. Wendy’s and Cinnabon launched a dessert in February, and Subway added snacks from Cinnabon and Auntie Anne’s in January.

The company stated in a press release that this decision will significantly increase the availability of fresh Krispy Kreme doughnuts or cookies, more than doubling the number of locations.

Moreover, a phased rollout starting in the latter half of this year will extend to all participating McDonald’s outlets nationwide by 2026.

According to the agreement, Krispy Kreme has committed to not supply its doughnuts to any other quick-service restaurant in the US until December 31, 2026.

Moreover, the company seeks to increase its global presence to a minimum of 75,000 points of access, encompassing fast-food establishments and retail stores, using a hub-and-spoke model.

McDonald’s Plans Openings Amid Boycott, Krispy Kreme Success

McDonald’s, with approximately 14,000 stores in the US, announced in December its intention to open around 10,000 restaurants worldwide by 2027.

Meanwhile, McDonald’s has faced challenges with reduced international demand due to boycotts related to the Israel-Hamas conflict and economic conditions in China.

In October 2022, Krispy Kreme and McDonald’s initiated a limited partnership, conducting a small-scale test to offer the North Carolina-based firm doughnuts at over 160 McDonald’s outlets in Louisville and Lexington, Ky., regions.

These locations will continue serving Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Krispy Kreme has also been running a similar trial with Costco in global markets, as stated to investors last year.