News Summary
Shipley Donuts has announced plans to open five new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier area by 2029, marking the chain’s first presence in northwest Louisiana. This expansion, in partnership with BC Restaurant Holding LLC, aims to meet community demand and enhance access to their beloved products. The first store is set to open in late 2026, with additional locations following in the subsequent years. Shipley Donuts is on track to grow its market presence significantly, emphasizing its reputation and quality offerings in the region.
Shreveport, Louisiana – Shipley Donuts to Open Five New Locations by 2029
Shipley Donuts has entered into a franchise development agreement to establish five new stores in the Shreveport-Bossier area of northwest Louisiana, marking the chain’s inaugural presence in this region. The planned expansion is part of a partnership with BC Restaurant Holding LLC, led by industry veterans Steve Watkins and Walter Bigby, who have extensive experience operating multiple restaurant locations.
The opening of the first Store is projected for late 2026, with the subsequent four locations scheduled to debut over the next three years, enhancing the community’s access to the well-loved brand.
Strategic Expansion and Franchise Partnership
The franchise agreement is significant as it represents Shipley Donuts’ first foray into northwest Louisiana, an area previously untapped by the brand. The partnership with BC Restaurant Holding LLC comes with the expertise of Watkins and Bigby, who have successfully operated five Zaxby’s restaurants and two Jersey Mike’s locations, with plans for an additional Jersey Mike’s in the pipeline.
Keith Sizemore, Senior Vice President of Franchise Development at Shipley Donuts, expressed confidence in the strategic growth trajectory of the brand. The franchise agreement aligns with Shipley’s ongoing mission to expand its market footprint and cater to the increasing demand for their products.
Company Background and Growth Objectives
Founded in Houston in 1936, Shipley Donuts has developed a strong reputation across the southern United States. Known for offering over 60 varieties of handmade donuts and kolaches, along with coffee and other beverages, the company has established seven locations in central and southern Louisiana. Currently, the brand is on track to open more than 40 new stores by the end of 2025, highlighting its rapid growth.
Shipley Donuts is ranked No. 121 on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500® list for 2025 and is recognized as the leader in its category. This ranking underscores the brand’s robust performance metrics and operational efficiencies.
Future Prospects and Market Strategy
The new locations in the Shreveport-Bossier area are part of a broader strategy whereby Shipley Donuts is pursuing the development of over 200 locations across key markets in the Southern, Southeastern, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwestern regions of the U.S. The company is actively seeking qualified franchisees to support its expansion efforts.
The appealing and repetitive nature of Shipley Donuts’ product offerings, along with the company’s well-established brand identity, are critical elements that attract franchise partnerships. Watkins and Bigby noted Shipley’s strong performance metrics and strategic leadership as essential factors influencing their decision to collaborate with the brand.
This expansion into northwest Louisiana signals a promising future for both Shipley Donuts and the local community, providing residents with beloved donut varieties and enhancing the local economy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shipley Donuts Expands into Shreveport-Bossier City Area
Additional Resources
- KSLA News
- Wikipedia: Shipley Donuts
- KTBS News
- Google Search: Shipley Donuts expansion 2025
- Franchising.com
- Google Scholar: Shipley Donuts business strategy
- WV News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shipley Donuts
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.
