Krispy Kreme Analysis

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Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. The Doughnut Industry The U.S. doughnut industry was a $5 to $6 billion market in 2003 – 2004 with a robust growth rate of 13%. Doughnut specialty stores were the fastest growing dining category in 2002 – 2003 with sales increases of 9% to approximately $3.6 billion. Opportunity for expansion in North America and globally is desirable. Doughnuts appeal to many people across all ages and demographics. The increasing rate of obesity and the concern about healthy living triggers a change in buyer demand toward a more health conscious diet. The doughnut industry consists of few major competitors which are Dunkin' Donuts ($2.7 billion ), Tim Hortons ($651 million ), Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. (KKD) ($665 million ), Winchell's Donut House and a large number of smaller, independent doughnut shops, including neighborhood bakeries/doughnut shops and bakery departments in supermarkets. (See Figure 1) Major players in this industry rely heavily on franchising and royalties' fees paid to the parent companies. Most companies are retailers selling directly to end-users. Some i.e. KKD also use other channels for distribution of their product. Price competition among rivals is close to nil, industry participants are very competitive when it comes to product differentiation. Product offerings to satisfy consumer demands include a variety of coffee, juices, muffins, bagels, cookies, cream cheese sandwiches, soups and other miscellaneous items. The Competitive Environment – Competitive Success Rivalry among competing sellers can be classified as strong. Competing sellers are constantly offering a broader product selection to dissuade competition for example Dunkin' Donuts' introduction of bagels and cream cheese sandwiches to protect against the pressure of Starbucks, Tim Hortons' expansion of the lunch menu, and KKD's acquisition of Digital Java to be able to compete in the coffee segment. The threat of new entrants is moderately strong. Incumbents do not strongly contest entry of newcomers, but existing industry members are consistently looking to expand their geographic reach and offer a broad product assortment. Brand awareness and customer loyalty are high and greatly important i this industry. Substitute products for doughnuts are readily available including other baked items i.e. bagels, muffins, healthier food alternatives such as sandwiches, yoghurt, fruit and other comfort food for example ice cream and chocolates. The cost for consumers to switch is low. The bargaining power of suppliers is very low. Major players are vertically integrated for example KKD is producing their own equipment while others are partnering up with suppliers.

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