The Japanese subsidiary of US fastfood giant McDonald’s may be about to ink an agreement with compatriot doughnut maker Krispy Kreme.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Mark Kalinowski, an analyst with Salomon Smith Barney, is reported by Reuters as saying in a research note that the partnership would allow McDonald’s to ramp up its operations in Japan by diversifying into the popular sweet treat. He reminded investors that the Japanese have already warmed to other American sweet snacks such as Cinnabon cinnamon rolls.


“The move seems in keeping with McDonald’s Japan’s strategic plans as well as Krispy Kreme’s recent moves to open in international markets,” Kalinowski wrote. “In addition, McDonald’s Japan is one of the foremost experts on Japan’s challenging real-estate market.”


The group is looking to rebuild its share price in Japan, where it currently lags 36% behind the start of the year following concern over the Japanese BSE crisis. Sales have failed to pick up long-term despite a brave price-cutting measure introduced in August.


For its part, Krispy Kreme has already embarked on an ambitious international expansion campaign following a successful entry into the Canadian market. The company has already outlined plans to open stores in Australia and New Zealand. Back in the spring, Krispy Kreme let it be known that it was also eyeing Japan, South Korea, Spain and the UK to roll out its global initiative.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

To read an editorial comment by just-food.com managing editor Catherine Sleep on Krispy Kreme’s international expansion, click here.