News Summary
Shipley Donuts, a renowned brand from Texas, is expanding into Northwest Louisiana with plans to open five locations in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. This marks the company’s first venture into this region, with the first shop expected to open in late 2026. Local entrepreneurs, Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby, have finalized a franchise agreement to oversee the new locations, aiming to enhance culinary options and create job opportunities in the community.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shipley Donuts, a well-known brand based in Houston, Texas, is set to make its debut in Northwest Louisiana by opening five new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. This expansion is a significant milestone for the company, marking its first venture into this region. The franchise agreement has been finalized with BC Restaurant Holding LLC, a partnership between local entrepreneurs Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby.
The initial Shipley Donuts location is projected to open its doors in late 2026, followed by four additional shops to be launched over the subsequent three years. The development of these locations is indicative of Shipley Donuts’ strategic growth, as the company aims to broaden its reach and increase its market presence.
Operational Background
Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby, who are already established business operators in the Shreveport-Bossier area, currently manage five Zaxby’s restaurants and two Jersey Mike’s sub shops. Their experience in the restaurant industry positions them well to oversee the new Shipley Donuts locations. This partnership demonstrates a local commitment to bringing a popular brand to their community, offering residents a new option for fresh and handmade donuts.
Founded in 1936, Shipley Donuts is renowned for its signature handmade glazed donuts and boasts more than 60 different varieties. The brand has built a loyal customer base and continues to be celebrated for its quality and flavor. Currently, Shipley Donuts operates seven locations in central and southern Louisiana, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its operations within the state and beyond.
Expansion Goals
This development is part of Shipley Donuts’ ambitious plan to open over 40 new stores by the end of 2025, a goal that is representative of the company’s record growth trajectory. The franchise development strategy is aimed at attracting qualified franchisees to key markets, with over 200 locations in various stages of development across the country. The expansion plan reflects the confidence in the brand’s strong market position and customer appeal.
Shipley Donuts has a history of growth and has secured its place as a favorite among donut enthusiasts. The strategic partnerships formed with local franchisees like Watkins and Bigby are expected to help facilitate this growth while ensuring that the brand maintains its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Community Impact
The introduction of Shipley Donuts to the Shreveport-Bossier area is anticipated to not only satisfy local cravings for donuts but also to create job opportunities within the region. As more locations open over the coming years, the community can expect a positive impact on the local economy as well.
Overall, the arrival of Shipley Donuts in Northwest Louisiana exemplifies the brand’s intent to grow its footprint and enhance the gastronomical variety available to residents in the area. With both a historical legacy in the donut industry and a forward-looking approach to business expansion, Shipley Donuts is poised for success in its new market.
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Additional Resources
- KTBS – Shipley Donuts Expansion
- Wikipedia: Donut
- KSLA – Shipley Donuts in Northwest Louisiana
- Google Search: Shipley Donuts expansion
- KTAL News – Shipley Donuts Expansion in Louisiana
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Doughnut
- Shreveport Times – National Donut Day Deals
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.
