Dunkin’ Faces Nationwide Doughnut Shortage Due to Manufacturing Error

Dunkin’ stores across Nebraska and potentially nationwide are grappling with a doughnut shortage caused by a manufacturing error, leaving customers disappointed and shelves empty. The issue, first reported in Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, has led to signs at affected locations informing customers of the unavailability of the popular pastries.

“What? No doughnuts! That’s tragic!” exclaimed Tyler Raikar, an Omaha resident, after discovering the shortage at a local Dunkin’ store. While Raikar was primarily interested in coffee, she expressed disappointment at the lack of doughnuts, a staple of the brand’s menu.

Store managers in Nebraska cited orders from Dunkin's corporate headquarters, stating that the shortage is a national problem. However, checks in other regions, including St. Joseph, Missouri, and areas where Dunkin’ enjoys a strong following, revealed no similar shortages.

Dunkin’, one of the world’s largest coffee and doughnut brands with over 13,200 locations, was founded in Massachusetts in 1950. In 2020, it was acquired by Atlanta-based Inspire Brands for $11.3 billion. The company rebranded in 2018, dropping “Donuts” from its name to emphasize its focus on coffee and beverages, which account for the majority of its sales.

Bryce Bares, a franchise owner in Nebraska, told the Omaha World-Herald that some stores received substandard products from suppliers, prompting the removal of doughnuts from shelves. Bares assured customers that the issue had been corrected and that doughnuts would return to Nebraska locations soon.

Dunkin’ and Inspire Brands have not yet responded to requests for comment. Customers are advised to check local stores for updates on the availability of doughnuts and other menu items.