Fast-growing Shipley Do-Nuts, one of the nation’s largest do-nut brands, has signed a development deal with Charlotte-area franchisees John and Lillian Brijeski to open the brand’s first North Carolina locations beginning in late 2024.
Founded in Texas in 1936, Shipley is an iconic brand with more than 340 locations across 12 states, selling more than 60 varieties of do-nuts, plus kolaches – savory pastries stuffed with meat and cheese – and hot coffee and cold brew.
The family plans to open three locations in the Charlotte area, starting with the first in Concord.
The husband-and-wife team are seasoned franchisees, having owned and operated a successful Kumon Math & Reading Center in Tarrytown, New York, for nine years before relocating to the Charlotte area in 2021.
John Brijeski is a CPA and hotel industry CFO, while Lillian Brijeski, a former educator, will lead construction, hiring and operations for the new shops.
Shipley is rapidly expanding throughout the South and Southeast and opened its first shops in Maryland and Georgia this year.