News Summary
Shipley Donuts has signed a franchise agreement to open five new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier City area by 2029, marking its entry into Northwest Louisiana. Local franchise partners, Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby, aim to meet community demand for quality donuts. The first location is set to open in late 2026, offering a variety of products including handcrafted donuts, kolaches, and coffee. This expansion reflects Shipley’s commitment to strategic growth in the fast-growing donut market.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shipley Donuts, a Houston-based donut brand, has announced a franchise agreement to open five new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier City area by 2029. This expansion marks the company’s first entry into Northwest Louisiana, demonstrating a significant step in its growth strategy. The agreement was made with local franchise partners, BC Restaurant Holding LLC, led by residents Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby, both of whom bring a decade of franchise expertise to the partnership.
The initial new location is projected to debut in late 2026, followed by four additional shops to be established over the next three years. This development aligns with Shipley Donuts’ broader goal of record growth, with plans to launch over 40 new stores nationwide by the end of 2025. As of now, Shipley Donuts operates 388 locations across 14 states, with a strong presence predominantly in Texas.
Local Franchise Partnership
Watkins and Bigby currently operate five Zaxby’s and two Jersey Mike’s restaurants in the Shreveport-Bossier market. Their local experience, combined with Shipley’s reputation as a beloved brand, informed their decision to pursue this collaboration. The franchise partners recognized a substantial demand for a prominent, growing donut brand in the area, which further fueled their motivation to affiliate with Shipley Donuts.
Menu Offerings and Operational Details
Shipley Donuts is renowned for its signature handmade glazed donuts, boasting over 60 varieties of baked goods. The new locations will offer a diverse range of products, including handcrafted donuts, kolaches, and coffee. The operating hours for these shops will extend from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., catering to early risers and those looking for afternoon treats.
Each location will feature both in-store dining and drive-thru options, providing convenience for customers. This focus on accessibility aligns with Shipley Donuts’ efforts to enhance customer experience through modern digital sales initiatives, while remaining committed to the brand’s roots of quality and tradition.
Market Position and Expansion Strategy
The expansion into the Shreveport-Bossier area addresses a perceived gap in the market for a full-service donut shop, as identified by local entrepreneurs. Competitors include Dunkin’ Donuts and Southern Maid, as well as regional boutique brands. However, Shipley Donuts aims to distinguish itself through its extensive menu and community-centered approach.
Company Background and Growth Trends
Founded in 1936, Shipley Donuts has become a staple in communities, well-known for its quality and variety. The brand has climbed to new heights with recent record-breaking sales attributed to enhanced loyalty membership programs and strategic growth initiatives. With this expansion into Northwest Louisiana, Shipley Donuts is positioning itself for continued success in the fast-growing donut market, seizing the opportunity presented by the area’s demographics and demand.
The franchise development announcement was shared by Keith Sizemore, Shipley’s Senior Vice President of Franchise Development, emphasizing the importance of strategic growth for the company. With strong local leadership and a commitment to quality, the new Shreveport-Bossier locations are anticipated to be a welcomed addition to the local dining scene.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shipley Do-Nuts Expands to Shreveport-Bossier Area
Shipley Donuts to Open New Locations in Shreveport
Shipley Donuts Expands into Shreveport-Bossier City Area
Additional Resources
- KTBS
- KSLA
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- KTAL News
- KSLA News
- Wikipedia: Shipley Donuts
- Google Search: Shipley Donuts Shreveport Bossier
- Google Scholar: Shipley Donuts expansion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Doughnut
- Google News: Shipley Donuts expansion Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo 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 Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
