Few food items in the world have achieved the iconic status of Krispy Kreme’s Original Glazed® doughnut. Loved across generations and continents, this melt-in-your-mouth treat is more than just a snack — it’s a cultural phenomenon. But how did it all begin, and why does the Original Glazed® remain the heart of the Krispy Kreme franchise story?
A Recipe with Legacy
The story dates back to 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, when Vernon Rudolph bought a secret yeast-raised doughnut recipe from a New Orleans chef. This recipe, combined with Rudolph’s entrepreneurial spirit, gave birth to the first Krispy Kreme shop. What set it apart from other doughnuts at the time was its light texture, perfect glaze, and consistency — qualities that customers couldn’t resist.
The “Hot Now” Revolution
In the 1950s, Krispy Kreme introduced the now-legendary “Hot Now” neon sign, signaling when doughnuts were being made fresh. This innovation created not just a product, but an experience. Customers would line up around the block, eager to taste doughnuts straight from the conveyor belt, still warm, soft, and glazed to perfection.
For franchisees, the “Hot Now” experience remains one of the strongest selling points, drawing crowds and turning first-time visitors into loyal fans.
Why the Original Glazed® Matters for Franchisees
For franchise owners, the Original Glazed® is more than just the best-seller — it’s the foundation of the brand’s profitability. Here’s why:
- High demand: It’s the top-ordered doughnut worldwide, ensuring steady foot traffic.
- Simplicity & efficiency: The production process is streamlined, making it easy for new franchisees to maintain quality.
- Brand identity: It represents Krispy Kreme’s tradition, guaranteeing that customers know exactly what to expect in every location.
Global Appeal
Today, Krispy Kreme’s Original Glazed® is sold in over 30 countries, with each franchise carrying forward the same recipe and experience that Vernon Rudolph introduced more than 85 years ago. Its universal appeal makes it a safe entry point for new markets, often serving as the first taste that wins over customers before they explore other flavors and seasonal offerings.
A Sweet Lesson in Consistency
The success of the Original Glazed® lies in Krispy Kreme’s commitment to consistency and quality. For prospective franchisees, it’s proof that a single product, executed flawlessly, can anchor an entire business model.
Whether it’s in New York, London, Dubai, or Tokyo, customers bite into an Original Glazed® and immediately recognize the taste of Krispy Kreme’s promise: joy, freshness, and quality you can trust.
✅ Franchise Insight:
When evaluating the Krispy Kreme opportunity, remember that the Original Glazed® is more than a doughnut — it’s a brand pillar and revenue driver that ensures your franchise is never starting from scratch.