Krispy Kreme history and retail availability

Krispy Kreme, founded in 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, by Vernon Rudolph, has expanded from a local business into a global confectionery brand. The company originated when Rudolph purchased a secret yeast-raised recipe from a New Orleans chef and began selling doughnuts to local grocery stores.

Today, the brand maintains a multifaceted distribution model. Consumers can purchase products through dedicated Krispy Kreme stores, which offer the ‘Hot Light’ experience, as well as through various retail partners including Walmart, Target, Kroger, Walgreens, and CVS. Additionally, doughnuts are available in grocery stores, select convenience stores, and via delivery services such as Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash.