Operations

Take a look at Duck Donuts' flexible new prototype

The Pennsylvania-based donut chain introduced a new design aimed at optimizing orders for customers and reducing costs for franchisees. Take a look inside.
Duck Donuts new prototype
Duck Donuts has a new prototype it hopes will provide a better customer experience and more flexibility for franchisees. / Images and video courtesy of Duck Donuts

Duck Donuts, the Mechanicsburg, Pa.-based made-to-order donut chain, on Wednesday introduced a new prototype it hopes will both improve the customer experience while providing development flexibility for franchisees that could lower their costs.  

The design includes two ordering options. Customers can self-order at kiosks. Or they can order from the counter. There are also areas for mobile-order or delivery pickup:

Duck Donuts interior

The new prototype also features artwork designed to highlight the local community, including 3D graphics, digital menu boards and high-top barstools where customers can watch donuts get made. Exterior areas feature awnings and seating with umbrellas, “pending landlord approval.”

There is a dedicated catering prep area, so as to not interfere with the orders targeted for in-store guests.

Duck Donuts interior 2

The whole thing is designed to go into smaller footprints, of 1,000 to 1,400 square feet. That could lower build-out costs by up to $75,000.

The company plans to debut the new shop design in Collierville, Tenn., and Wyomissing, Pa. The shops are expected to open in the second half of this year.

Duck Donuts currently operates 117 franchise locations in 23 states and Puerto Rico.

Check out the new prototype here:

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