Shipley Donuts signs historic nonprofit franchise agreement

A donut franchisor with a rich history is working with local operators in South Dallas to open a shop that will bring opportunity to the community as well as fried goodness.

Shipley Donuts today announced the signing of a one-unit franchise agreement with the SouthFair Community Development Corporation. This marks Shipley’s first-ever franchise agreement with a nonprofit.

The deal will bring Shipley Donuts to the new Malcolm’s Point Retail Project on Al Lipscomb Way in Dallas by the end of 2026. SouthFair will have a unique triple-role as landlord, tenant, and franchisee under this agreement, a system first for Shipley.

“At Shipley, we believe that great donuts have the power to bring people together,” said Flynn Dekker, CEO of Shipley Donuts. “This partnership with SouthFair reflects and expands upon our nearly 90-year-old legacy of investing in people and communities. 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.”

Nonprofit partnership details

SouthFair Community Development Corporation (CDC) has worked for more than three decades to drive revitalization in South Dallas. For the last 15 years, the group has been led by Chief Executive Director Annie Evans.

“Partnering with a legacy brand like Shipley is all about creating opportunity for our community,” said Evans. “This franchise agreement gives our community a seat at the table and a chance to reinvest in its own future. We’re building a foundation for long-term economic opportunity that we hope will benefit Dallas residents for generations to come.”

Operating as the Community Donut Corporation, SouthFair plans to reinvest proceeds from their new Shipley location into the local neighborhood. The deal will also create sustainable jobs in the community, enabling the creation of more local wealth.

Shipley donuts history

Shipley Donuts traces its history back to Houston in 1936 and officially launched their franchise system in 1987. The brand operates a network of more than 390 franchised and company-owned locations across 13 states. They’re the nation’s largest brand of fresh donuts and specialize in kolaches, Czech-inspired filled pastries that have become a Texas favorite.

In addition to helping revitalize South Dallas, Shipley Donuts is currently also seeking additional franchisees throughout the South, Southeast, and Midwest markets.