Krispy Kreme CEO Says Turnaround Plan Is Working

Krispy Kreme CEO Josh Charlesworth discusses the company's turnaround progress, highlighting margin improvement of 340 basis points, a 1.3-turn reduction in leverage, and underlying sales growth of 4.4% excluding the exited McDonald's business. He outlines operational changes like logistics outsourcing and a focus on the profitable fresh delivery channel with partners such as Walmart and Target. Charlesworth also addresses the competitive dessert market, emphasizing innovation, a large loyalty base, and the brand's unique fresh doughnut proposition to maintain growth. - Turnaround plan announced a year ago is working, with margins improving 340 bps in Q2. - Leverage reduced by 1.3 turns, aided by profitability improvements. - Underlying sales grew 4.4% in Q2 after excluding discontinued McDonald's distribution. - Fresh delivery channel weekly sales per location up 30% year-over-year. - Operational changes include logistics outsourcing for cost predictability. - Krispy Kreme has 18 million loyalty members across 400 US doughnut shops. - Company sees growth through innovation (seasonal LTOs) and omni-channel access with Walmart and Target. - CEO believes infrequent treat purchases and strong brand engagement insulate the company in the current consumer environment.