Duck Donuts: 10 facts about North Carolina’s tasty triumph
Discover how Duck Donuts turned a vacation craving into a nationwide favorite right here in North Carolina.
Founded in 2006 in Duck, North Carolina by Russ DiGilio and Robin Griffith, Duck Donuts has become a beloved destination for customizable, made-to-order donuts. Starting as a small shop in the Outer Banks, Duck Donuts quickly gained popularity for its fresh, warm treats, leading to its expansion across the United States and internationally. By 2021, Duck Donuts achieved a revenue of $32 million, driven by its mission to deliver smiles with warm, delicious donuts made just the way you like.
Get ready to discover the sweet history behind one of North Carolina’s most a-dough-rable donut shops with these 10 facts.
Facts about Duck Donuts
1. Sweet Beginnings
Duck Donuts was founded in 2006 by Russell “Russ” DiGilio and Robin Griffith. Both natives of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, the duo met in 1992 while working in the assisted living industry.
2. Beachside Inspiration
The idea for Duck Donuts was born on the sandy beaches of the Outer Banks in Duck, North Carolina. During family vacations, founder Russ DiGilio realized there was no place to get a warm, fresh donut, so he decided to create his own. This led to the opening of the first Duck Donuts in Duck, North Carolina in 2007.
3. Outer Banks Exclusives
Before franchising, Duck Donuts was limited to the Outer Banks, with additional locations in Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Corolla. For half a decade, these beachside spots were the only places to enjoy their warm, fresh donuts.
4. Franchising Frenzy
In 2013, Russ DiGilio launched the Duck Donuts Franchising Company, with the first franchise opening in Williamsburg, Virginia. The franchise rapidly grew, expanding to states like Florida, New Jersey, and Georgia. By July 2018, there were 69 franchise locations with 140 additional contracts across 23 states and two countries.
5. Ollie the Donut Duckbassador
Ollie is Duck Donuts’ fun and lovable mascot, affectionately known as the “duckbassador.” Ollie has been a symbol of Duck Donuts’ beach town roots since its founding in Duck, North Carolina and he proudly represents the brand’s connection to its origins across all its locations.
6. Signature Vanilla Cake Doughnut
The base of every Duck Donut is a vanilla cake doughnut. This consistent foundation allows for endless customization with various toppings and drizzles. Ollie is featured in the logo pairing the signature vanilla cake doughnut with his favorite toppings of chocolate icing and rainbow sprinkles.
7. Beyond Donuts
While donuts are the star of the show, Duck Donuts offers a variety of other menu options. Customers can enjoy breakfast sandwiches, coffee, espresso drinks, and even ice cream sundaes. These additional offerings make Duck Donuts a versatile spot for any time of day.
8. Quack Gives Back Initiative
Duck Donuts considers their company a family and encourages each shop to invest in their local communities through the Quack Gives Back program. This initiative promotes partnerships with community groups to raise awareness and funds for various causes. In March 2017, Duck Donuts collaborated with Gabe’s Chemo Duck Program for children with cancer, raising approximately $75,000 through their nationwide “Quack Gives Back” campaign.
9. Supporting Make-A-Wish
Duck Donuts is a also proud supporter of Make-A-Wish, helping to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Through the month of June, customers were able to contribute to Make-A-Wish by donating in-person, online, or by purchasing a special-edition Wish Rubber Duck for $3, with $1 from each sale going to Make-A-Wish.
10. Join the Quack Pack
Duck Donuts offers exciting collaboration opportunities for content creators and college athletes. Content creators can join the Quack Pack, while athletes can become Elite Duckletes.
Eligible members should live within 20 miles of a Duck Donuts location and have a public social media account. Both Quack Pack content creators and Duckletes receive monthly collaboration offers for free products throughout the year and Duckletes also receive a starter PR kit with Duck Donuts merchandise to sport on and off the field.
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