Growing donut market proves the beloved pastry is more popular than ever
BUFFALO, N.Y. – In celebration of National Donut Day (June 7), Rich Products (Rich’s), a global, family-owned food company, has released the results of a proprietary consumer survey on donut trends, highlighting a shift in consumer preferences toward on-the-go snacking and an enduring partiality for traditional flavors, despite an influx of flavor options. The study, paired with information from Datassential, found that the donut market continues to grow as demand for the beloved pastry expands across the retail bakery and foodservice industries.
“We’re constantly keeping an eye on consumer trends, so that we can help our customers stay ahead of the curve,” said Amanda Buonopane, senior manager, Strategic Insights, Rich Products. “Based on our consumer survey, donuts present a huge opportunity area for retail bakeries and foodservice operators. At Rich’s, we’re focused on driving innovation to not only deliver on these consumer trends but solve key customer needs – like our fully-finished donuts, which have a unique formula that allow them to stay fresh for twice as long as other bakery options, or our wide variety of flavored donut holes that help customers differentiate themselves.”
Highlights from Rich’s study include:
Donut Market Growth Remains Strong
Research shows that consumers have an enduring love for donuts. In fact, Rich’s study found that 56% of consumers purchase donuts at least once a month, and more than a third of consumers purchase the pastry multiple times per month. This demand is reflected in foodservice industry trends as well. Datassential found that inclusion of donuts on menus has grown 47% in the past 10 years, bolstered by an affinity for the sweet treat amongst a younger generation, families, and foodies.
Donuts Are Enjoyed On-The-Go
While Rich’s study found that breakfast is still the most likely daypart when consumers are reaching for donuts, respondents indicated a growing preference for on-the-go indulgence, with over two-thirds (68%) of consumers citing snacking as a top occasion for donuts. This is driving higher demand for snackable solutions like donut holes, which nearly 50% of respondents noted as a favorite format to enjoy the treat. This sentiment is supported by Datassential data, which found that 76% of consumers love or like donut holes.
Traditional Donut Flavors Remain on Top
While Datassential noted the emergence of unique donut themes featuring savory and global flavors, Rich’s research shows that traditional flavors continue to drive the most consumer demand. The study found that 60% of consumers in the U.S. prefer traditional glazed donuts, while 37% prefer frosted or dipped donuts, as well as donuts with a cream filling. Exploring beyond the norm isn’t out of the question, however. With the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Rich’s study identified that consumers are curious about how the technology may impact donut flavor options available to them. When asked about their interest in trying AI-generated donut flavors, 46% of respondents answered they were “interested” or “very interested.”
To learn more about Rich’s full spectrum of donut products, visit www.richsusa.com/products/donuts.
MEET RICH’S.
Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $5.8 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that families make…possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.
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