News Summary
Shipley Donuts has signed a franchise agreement to open five new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier region by 2029. This marks the brand’s first entry into northwest Louisiana, driven by local entrepreneurs who already operate several restaurants. The expansion is part of Shipley Donuts’ broader growth strategy, responding to increased demand for quality baked goods. With more than 60 flavors of donuts and plans for over 40 new stores nationwide, the franchise aims to enhance dining options for local residents and drive economic development.
Shreveport, LA – Shipley Donuts has announced a franchise development agreement to open five new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier area by 2029. This marks the brand’s first venture into northwest Louisiana and is part of a broader strategy for growth within the region.
The franchise deal has been signed with BC Restaurant Holding LLC, an entity led by local entrepreneurs Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby. Those involved in the deal currently operate five Zaxby’s restaurants and two Jersey Mike’s locations in the area, with plans to add another Jersey Mike’s outlet in the near future.
The first of the new Shipley Donuts stores is slated to open in late 2026, followed by four additional stores over the following three years. This gradual rollout has been designed to maximize efficiency and service quality as the brand expands into this new market.
Shipley Donuts, known for its handcrafted donuts and kolaches, was first established in Houston back in 1936. The franchise has gained popularity for offering more than 60 different flavors of donuts, alongside coffee and other complimentary products. Currently, the donut chain operates seven locations in central and south Louisiana and is on track to open over 40 new stores nationwide by the end of 2025.
According to officials within the company, the decision to expand into Shreveport-Bossier is driven by the substantial growth in Shipley’s average unit volume and the effective leadership committed to strategic growth. This focus on expansion aligns with Shipley Donuts’ overall strategy to seek out franchisees who can operate in key markets across the Southern, Southeastern, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwestern regions of the United States.
The involvement of local business figures like Watkins and Bigby indicates a commitment to leveraging community insights and customer preferences in crafting a successful business model in the new locations. Entrepreneurs interested in exploring Restaurant franchise opportunities, such as those offered by Shipley Donuts, may find the growing demand for fresh and high-quality baked goods appealing.
Shipley Donuts has expressed confidence that the addition of these five stores will cater to the growing appetite for unique dining experiences in the Shreveport-Bossier area, bringing beloved regional items such as specialty donuts that have been a hallmark of their brand for decades.
As the opening timelines approach, local residents can look forward to indulging in a variety of treats that Shipley Donuts is celebrated for, paving the way for a notable entry of the franchise into the northwest Louisiana marketplace. The expansion signifies not just growth for the company, but also potential economic development for the local area through job creation and enhanced consumer choices.
In conclusion, Shipley Donuts’ decision to open five new locations marks a significant expansion in northwest Louisiana, capitalizing on the expertise of local entrepreneurs and the brand’s established popularity in other regions. This move is part of a larger trend of strategic growth aimed at tapping into key markets throughout the southern United States.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KSLA: Shipley Donuts Expanding into Northwest Louisiana
- Wikipedia: Shipley Donuts
- KTBS: Shipley Donuts to Open Five Locations
- Google Search: Shipley Donuts
- WV News: Shipley Donuts to Open Locations
- Google Scholar: Shipley Donuts expansion
- KSLA: Shipley Do-Nuts in Shreveport
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shipley Donuts
- K945: Shipley Do-Nuts in Shreveport-Bossier
- Google News: Shipley Donuts Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
