US doughnut maker and retailer Krispy Kreme Doughnuts has announced the departure of its chief operating officer, John Tate.

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The company said Tate will leave the business to pursue another opportunity. He will be returning to Northern California, where he has accepted a new position.


Scott Livengood, chairman, president and CEO, will assume the chief operating officer’s responsibilities effective immediately, the company said.


Krispy Kreme has had a difficult year so far. The company reported a first-quarter net loss as its operations were hit by the popularity of low-carbohydrate diets. Then at the end of July Krispy Kreme said that the US Securities and Exchange Commission was conducting an informal, non-public inquiry regarding the company’s franchise reacquisitions and its previously announced reduction in earnings guidance.

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