TOLEDO -- Krispy Kreme's "hot" sign tells you fresh donuts are available, so come on in. Unfortunately, cold sales are bringing about major changes to the chain, and at the Krispy Kreme on Secor south of Central, the "hot" sign will soon be shut off for good.
The company announced on Thursday that it plans to close 20 of its doughnut shops including the one on Secor by June 1st. Over the past 12 months, a total of 40 stores have closed, leaving the chain with about 400 outlets nationwide.
Krispy Kreme says America's infatuation with low-carb diets hurt sales. Business insiders say the company grew too fast and charge too much for a product that consists mostly of air.
Krispy Kreme first opened its doors in July of 1937, and according to its web page, it produces more than 3 million doughnuts a day and over 1.3 billion a year. In addition to Krispy Kreme stores, the company sells donuts in supermarkets, convenience stores and other retail outlets throughout the country. The company is also known for its donut-making machines, where you can see the process from start to finish.
Krispy Kreme's place in American society was recognized in 1997 with the induction of Krispy Kreme artifacts to the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History.
On the Web:
Krispy Kreme: www.krispykreme.com
