Courtesy Shipley Do-Nuts
The year was 1936, and at 1417 Crockett St., Houston, donuts were selling for $0.05 a dozen.
Behind the fresh, gourmet, glazed “do-nut” recipe was Lawrence Shipley Sr. and his family. Cut by hand and served hot, the donuts were sold wholesale. By the mid-1940s, the breakfast treat became so popular that Shipley was selling them individually to customers.
Courtesy Shipley Do-Nuts
Today, Shipley Do-Nuts has more than 190 stores across Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. Houston currently boasts 86 locations.
Through the continued work of Lawrence W. Shipley III, the franchise offers donuts, kolaches, donut holes, beignets, cinnamon rolls, coffee cakes, and beverages. Not only has the same delicious recipe been passed down through generations, but the idea of giving back to the community has also been handed down by the Shipley family.
A major way they continue to give back is through the Shipley Do-Nuts Dash, started by Shipley III in early 2015. Participants can compete in a 10K, 5K, Kids Dash, or a virtual race, with participants receiving a dri-fit Shipley Do-Nut race shirt, a donut-shaped finisher medal, a timed race bib, and a donut with coffee at the finish line. Part of the proceeds go to Kids’ Meals, a nonprofit organization that helps serve healthy lunches to preschool students living in poverty. After the first race in 2015, Shipley’s was able to present the nonprofit with a check for $10,000, and has raised over $100,000 since. This year’s race is taking place Oct. 18.
“Our core values as a brand was to give back to the community, which was what the President of the company at the time, Lawrence Shipley III, did,” Sheryl Shipley said.
Over the years, Shipley’s has also given back to local schools, universities, organizations, and nonprofits, including Habitat for Humanity. They also help owners open their own Shipley’s franchise through financial support.
“The food at Shipley is so great because it’s fresh,” Angie Silva, Multi-Unit Franchise Owner said. “If we can get this donut in your mouth, we will have you coming back.”
The plain glazed donut continues to be a fan favorite, but donut lovers can choose from over 60 varieties, including iced, sprinkled, and filled.
Many online reviews praise the customer service received at in-person locations, particularly the cleanliness and the welcoming atmosphere. But what really keeps a steady customer base is the quality of the food, perfected all those years ago.
Courtesy Shipley Do-Nuts
“When they bite into that hot donut, it will bring them back every time,” Shipley Sr. said.
Hungry for a donut now? Find the closest Shipley’s location near you.
