HOUSTON — Shipley Do-Nuts is on the rise thanks to its new ownership by middle-market private equity firm Levine Leichtman Capital Partners as well as a handful of c-suite appointments. The donut chain’s latest milestone, however, extends its national footprint into uncharted territory.
Through a deal with housing and economic development organization SouthFair Community Development Corp., Shipley has signed its first-ever non-profit franchise agreement. The shop, which will operate as Community Donut Corp., will be led by Annie Evans, chief executive director of SouthFair. SouthFair will also operate as landlord, tenant and franchisee for the bakery.
“At Shipley, we believe that great donuts have the power to bring people together,” said Flynn Dekker, CEO of Shipley Do-Nuts. “This partnership with SouthFair reflects and expands upon our nearly 90-year-old legacy of investing in people and communities.”
The shop is located in the newly built Malcolm’s Point Retail Project and is anticipated to open at the end of 2026. Once operational, a portion of the franchise revenue will be reinvested to support neighborhood programs and economic initiatives in the South Dallas area.
Pairing the major brand with a non-profit structure sets a precedent for similar community-centered franchise opportunities.
“We’re proud to be part of the growth happening in South Dallas’ Malcolm’s Point area and to support efforts that create lasting local opportunity,” Dekker continued.
