McDonald's is in discussions with Krispy Kreme to expand their partnership [54bd8d58]. Last year, McDonald's began selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts at select locations as a test [54bd8d58]. Now, the two companies have announced a nationwide partnership, with three doughnut varieties set to be available at McDonald's restaurants across the country: the classic Original Glazed® Doughnut, the Chocolate Iced with Sprinkles, and the Chocolate Iced Kreme™ Filled [ded12989]. The expansion comes after a successful trial run in Kentucky, and full availability is expected by the end of 2026 [ded12989]. Tariq Hassan, McDonald’s USA’s Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, expressed excitement about the partnership, while Josh Charlesworth, President and CEO of Krispy Kreme, promised doughnut lovers unprecedented access to their favorite treats [ded12989]. Krispy Kreme is ramping up its operations to ensure fresh doughnuts are delivered daily to McDonald’s restaurants nationwide [ded12989]. Despite the potential expansion, Krispy Kreme shares fell after the company's earnings report, which showed net revenue of $407.4 million last quarter [54bd8d58].
In other news, Kwik Trip, a gas station chain based in La Crosse, Wisconsin, has unveiled a new product called URGE chips [73faca52]. The company, known for its excellent customer service and fresh products, has over 900 stores and operates one of the largest bakeries in the world [73faca52]. The new URGE chips are uniquely flavored and crunchy chips that do not require dip. One of the flavors is Blueberry Dunker Chips [73faca52]. Specific details about the new product and its availability have not been provided [73faca52].
Food companies are responding to the changing and expanding tastes of consumers, particularly Gen Z, by introducing surprising flavor combinations and limited-time flavors [7e75dc8f]. Examples of these unique flavors include Sour Patch Kids Oreos and pink lemonade-flavored Kit Kats [7e75dc8f]. The trend is driven by Gen Z's diverse and adventurous preferences, which they quickly pick up on through social media [7e75dc8f]. Companies like Mondelez International and PepsiCo are exploring new flavor combinations to stay relevant and distinct in the market [7e75dc8f]. Manufacturers and suppliers have become more efficient in experimenting and releasing limited-edition flavors more frequently [7e75dc8f]. Candy brands like Brach's and Ferrara Candy Co. closely track social media to identify trending flavors and cater to consumer preferences [7e75dc8f] [7e75dc8f].