Houston-based Shipley Donuts will make its Michigan debut in Metro Detroit through a 15-unit franchise agreement with Hole Lotta Dough LLC.
The chain will open its locations across Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties. The first Shipley location planned for Michigan has a target opening for late Q1 2027. Hole Lotta Dough plans to open three additional shops per year for the next four years, resulting in 15 new stores over a five-year development period.
Now based in Auburn Hills, Michigan, multiple members of Hole Lotta Dough’s leadership team grew up in Houston. The operators bring over 20 years of experience in Metro Detroit’s gas and convenience store industry.
“Hole Lotta Dough brings the local expertise and Houston-to-Detroit connections to bring Shipley to life the right way in a brand-new market,” said Flynn Dekker, CEO of Shipley Donuts. “This partnership is a testament to our franchise growth strategy and we’re excited to introduce Metro Detroit communities to the fresh donuts and kolaches that have brought people together for generations.”
The Michigan expansion comes as Shipley plans to expand its footprint to a neighbouring Midwest state. The company recently announced it would enter Ohio with a three-unit franchise agreement in Cincinnati.
Founded in 1936, Shipley Donuts operates more than 390 company-owned and franchised restaurants across 13 states. The chain offers more than 40 varieties of fresh, handmade donuts.
