Krispy Kreme criticised over 'doughnut mountain' (2024)

Doughnut chain Krispy Kreme has been criticised for dumping a "mountain" of unwanted doughnuts outside one of its stores in Bristol.

Dozens of bags discarded sweet treats were photographed piled-up outside a shop in Avon Meads on Monday morning.

Chris Clewes said he was so disgusted by the "heaps of wasted doughnuts" - he took a picture and posted it online.

Krispy Kreme said there had been a problem with their recycling process which has since been resolved.

Mr Clewes said he had been getting a coffee when he spotted around 50 bags of "waste doughnuts" stacked up on top of a pallet and four large bins.

"I was absolutely flabbergasted. I reckon there were about 200 doughnuts in each bag - if not more," he said.

"I've done some quick maths and I reckon there were about 15,000 doughnuts being wasted there."

Hattie Parke, from the charity FoodCycle in Bristol - which creates community meals from surplus food - said she was not surprised by the "mountain of doughnuts" as firms "put in such strict quality standards".

"We're getting all of this food that's deemed waste but it's not waste, it's food and should be eaten," she said.

"I would like to see Krispy Kreme working with charities to redistribute this food."

Krispy Kreme said it sends its unsold doughnuts to be recycled into "animal feed" but recently it had changed its processes and now takes waste directly to Portbury Docks for recycling.

"Initially, due to the security protocols at the docks, we were unable to gain access this weekend," the spokesperson said.

"As a result the waste in the photograph is from Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This has now been resolved so that our drivers will be able to access the recycling facility over the weekend."

Krispy Kreme criticised over 'doughnut mountain' (2024)

FAQs

What was the main factor that led to Krispy Kreme's downfall? ›

Significant accounting mistakes were a substantial factor in creating monetary complications that eventually contributed to the downturn of Krispy Kreme. Such errors, which could be ignored during times of rapid company growth, emerged as haunting specters once the aggressive expansion strategy imploded.

What is the reason for Krispy Kreme's near failure? ›

The company lacked funding for its development. The quality of its donuts was bad. Consumers felt that its employees were incompetent.

What does Krispy Kreme do with unsold doughnuts? ›

Krispy Kreme said it sends its unsold doughnuts to be recycled into "animal feed" but recently it had changed its processes and now takes waste directly to Portbury Docks for recycling. "Initially, due to the security protocols at the docks, we were unable to gain access this weekend," the spokesperson said.

Who is Krispy Kreme biggest competitor? ›

Dunkin' and Krispy Kreme are two of the nation's biggest doughnut chains.

Why is Krispy Kreme changing their name? ›

Charlotte Roberts, head of marketing for the company, said: “The company re-brand is a strategic decision made in acknowledgement that our UK customers have struggled with the pronunciation of 'Kreme' (said 'cream') since our launch into the UK in 2003.

Who bought out Krispy Kreme? ›

On July 27, 2016, Krispy Kreme was acquired by JAB Beech.

How unhealthy is a Krispy Kreme? ›

A: While Krispy Kreme donuts can offer health benefits, they are still high in sugar and calories. It's best to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Q: How often can I eat Krispy Kreme donuts without affecting my health? A: There is no set rule for how often you can eat Krispy Kreme donuts.

What's the secret of Krispy Kreme? ›

Did you know that the secret recipe for Krispy Kreme donuts is kept in a vault in Winston-Salem, North Carolina? Only a select few people have access to this coveted recipe, which includes a unique blend of ingredients that give Krispy Kreme donuts their signature flavor and texture.

How did Krispy Kreme fail? ›

Krispy Kreme relied on one product and had become complacent. They struggled with marketing the fresh donut experience because their donuts could be bought everywhere. The accounting scandals did nothing but further infuriate fran- chisees and damage the company/franchisee relationship.

Is it true that Krispy Kreme gives free donuts? ›

As a Krispy Kreme Rewards member, you'll earn 10 points for every $1 you spend at participating Krispy Kreme locations. You can redeem your points for your favorite treats, including doughnuts, coffee, and hot chocolate. You will receive a welcome offer of a free doughnut of choice after you sign up.

Is there alcohol in Krispy Kreme? ›

Although we here at Krispy Kreme love a little tipple, our current range of doughnuts do not contain any alcohol and is safe to be consumed and enjoyed by all our customers.

How to keep Krispy Kreme donuts fresh overnight? ›

Our tasty treats are made fresh daily so best eaten on day of purchase for optimum freshness. The ideal condition for storage of a Krispy Kreme doughnut is in the original packaging at room temperature. We do not recommend storing in the fridge, in plastic storage bags or boxes or near a heat source.

What is America's #1 donut brand? ›

Hostess® Donettes®, America's #1 Donut, Stage Takeover of National Donut… er, Donettes® Day | Nasdaq.

Who is the number 1 donut consumer in the world? ›

Per capita, Canadians eat the most doughnuts compared to all world countries. The large number of Tim Hortons restaurants in Canada (over 4,600) significantly contributes to this consumption rate.

Why did Krispy Kreme franchise fail? ›

It was very difficult for franchisees to control operating costs and sell enough donuts to account for the cost of the store. In addition, franchisees were required to open multiple factory stores. To make matters worse, the stores were being placed too close together which flooded the market with Krispy Kreme donuts.

What happened to Krispy Kreme in 2004 and 2005? ›

Allegations of channel stuffing surfaced, where franchises alleged they were getting double their usual shipments at the end of a quarter in order for the company to make its numbers. In January 2005, Krispy Kreme announced it would restate its financials for much of fiscal 2004.

Why was being able to buy Krispy Kreme donuts everywhere bad for their brand? ›

Capitalizing on the popularity, Krispy Kreme attempted to sell its brand everywhere and anywhere – ranging from gas stations to kiosks – which diluted the appeal of its core product. Another definitive franchise failure tactic is to allow franchise locations that are too close in proximity.

How did the Krispy Kreme challenge start? ›

The Krispy Kreme Challenge started in December 2004 as a dare among a few Park Scholars and their friends, all NC State undergraduates.

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