Krispy Kreme Heads to the Netherlands

Krispy Kreme Inc. (Charlotte, N.C.) announced its expansion to the Netherlands, via an agreement with Amsterdam-based franchisee Jafa Holding BV. The northwestern European country’s first doughnut shop by the brand is expected to open late this year, with about 30 more planned over the next five years. (Krispy Kreme did not disclose the location of that initial spot.)

“Partnering with Jafa Holding BV, an experienced operator with deep knowledge of the local market, expands our European presence and reinforces our commitment to sustainable, profitable growth through our capital-light franchise model,” said Krispy Kreme CEO Josh Charlesworth.

The first Netherlands shop will feature Krispy Kreme’s Hot Light experience and serve as both a retail location and a production hub, anchoring the brand’s expansion across the country. Krispy Kreme, which has 1600-plus stores in about 40 countries (including roughly 350 in the U.S.) expects to open 30 locations over the next five years in the Netherlands.

Looking ahead, the purveyor of glazed doughnuts expects to open at least 100 shops globally and three to four new international markets this year, including the Netherlands.