Guy Meakin, the current Pret A Manger shops and franchise director, has been named the new president and managing director of Krispy Kreme UK & Ireland.
The appointment, effective from early November, will see him replace Jamie Dunning, who has decided to leave the doughnut specialist after serving in the role for the past two and a half years.
“We are thrilled to have Guy Meakin join us,” commented Matt Spanjers, Krispy Kreme President, International.
“He has extensive experience in the QSR industry, most recently as Pret A Manger’s shops and franchise director, and prior to that he led their UK business as interim managing director. He also has strong relationships with many of our customers and partners.”
Both Krispy Kreme and Pret are owned by investment firm JAB Holding Company.
Meakin called Krispy Kreme “one of the most beloved and well-known sweet treat brands in the world”, expressing his delight to be taking over leadership of the UK & Ireland business. “By touching and enhancing more peoples’ lives through the joy that is Krispy Kreme, we can make a real difference to their days,” he said.
Last month, the company launched a new doughnut line-up of fan favourites, best-sellers, and some new trending flavours. Krispy Kreme UK’s annual financial results for 2023 reported sales of £119.8m, a 1% rise in revenue compared to the previous year.
Spanjers also wanted to “thank Jamie for his contribution as he pursues his next career step and wish him well”.
During his time with the business, Dunning has overseen a period of double-digit revenue growth through the continued expansion of Krispy Kreme points of access and digital e-commerce development, including the flagship store on Oxford Street earlier this year.
Dunning gave an interview with British Baker at the opening of the new store, where he outlined how Krispy Kreme was striving for growth in 2024 including via new formats, more rewards, and unusual partnerships.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading this great brand to continued revenue growth through an unprecedented period of change,” said Dunning. “I believe it is time for a new leader to take the business through the next phase of its journey and wish Guy all the best.”
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