The Fast-Food Chain McDonald's to Start Offering Krispy Kreme Donuts in Its US Restaurants in the Second Half of the Year, a Project Intended to be Implemented Nationwide by the End of 2026. Krispy Kreme Made This Announcement, After Which Its Shares Jumped by 39% to $17.35 USD, Even Though They Had Fallen by 21% Compared to the Previous Year. Since 2022, McDonald's Had Already Been Testing Krispy Kreme Donuts in Some Outlets. This Deal is Considered a Significant Step for Krispy Kreme to Double Distribution Channels and Increase the Spread of Their Products Without Driving Up Delivery Costs. Currently, the Company Has More Than 14,000 Access Points. The Financial Terms of the Deal Were Not Disclosed.

Krispy Kreme's shares have struggled since the IPO in 2021, as the price remains below the issue price. Analysts from Truist point out that concerns about demand, which is influenced, among other things, by weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, play a role. However, they argue that the partnership with McDonald's will increase availability and opportunities to try a Krispy Kreme donut, and that these products could be attractive beyond breakfast.

Krispy Kreme, which also owns the Insomnia Cookies chain, is increasingly focusing on its core donut business. Last year, the company announced that it had engaged advisors to explore options, including a potential sale, for the Insomnia Cookies chain. Krispy Kreme is working on cost control and expanding its distribution, including international expansion. Executives see potential for growth in the USA in quick-service restaurants like McDonald's. CEO Josh Charlesworth has already mentioned investments in new donut production facilities to enable the daily delivery of fresh products to third parties like McDonald's.

McDonald's has revamped its burgers in recent months and introduced a new brand that hasn't been seen in decades. CosMc's, the new brand, aims to capture market share from Starbucks, with a focus on customizable iced coffees and small snacks.