US-based doughnut chain Shipley Do-Nuts has signed a development agreement to expand its footprint in North Carolina.

Under the agreement, three locations are planned for the Charlotte area and one is planned for Concord.

The three locations planned for Charlotte are scheduled to open in the autumn season (September-November) 2024

The agreements were signed with Charlotte-area franchisees John and Lillian Brijeski.

The husband-and-wife team are seasoned franchisees who will lead the new restaurants' construction, hiring and operations.

Lillian Brijeski said: “After trying Shipley Do-Nuts for the first time in South Carolina, we agreed they were delicious and that we needed to bring the world's greatest do-nuts to the residents of North Carolina.

“We also fell in love with the company and the Shipley story after our visit to Houston to explore the opportunity to open locations of our own. We love the Do-Happy motto and want to spread that theme throughout the Charlotte area.”

Shipley currently operates more than 340 locations across 12 US states and offers a wide range of doughnuts, kolaches – savoury pastries stuffed with meat and cheese – hot coffees and cold brews.

Shipley Do-Nuts CEO Flynn Dekker said: “John and Lillian have experience in running a successful franchise business, a strong background in finance, a great first location and a passion for the Shipley Do-Nuts brand.

“Our focus is on growing our brand with high-quality franchisees and they are the ideal partners to bring Shipley to North Carolina. We welcome them to the Shipley Do-Nuts family.”

In August this year, Shipley expanded its franchise development opportunities across five US states: Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Ohio.