In a move that has left donut enthusiasts disappointed, the first and only Duck Donuts shop in Tallahassee is set to close its doors, less than a year after its grand opening. The 1,500-square-foot establishment, nestled in Capital Plaza along Thomasville Road, will bid farewell to its patrons for the last time on Sunday, April 21.
The closure was announced via a heartfelt post on the shop’s Facebook page, expressing gratitude to the loyal customers who have patronized the store during its brief tenure. Shop owner Timothy McGrew, a Florida State University graduate and Army veteran, cited insufficient revenue as the primary reason for the closure, as reported by local ABC affiliate WTXL. Despite the best efforts of McGrew and his wife, Renee, who ran the franchise, sustaining operations proved to be untenable.
Since its inception in 2007 by founder Russ DiGilio in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Duck Donuts has garnered a devoted following, boasting over 125 locations across the United States and beyond. For patrons in Tallahassee, the nearest Duck Donuts will now be approximately 160 miles away in Jacksonville.
In response to the announcement of the closure, loyal patrons flooded the Facebook post with messages of support and reminiscence. Expressions of gratitude for the delectable treats and commendation for the dedicated staff were prevalent among the comments.
However, Duck Donuts is not the first donut shop in Tallahassee to face such a fate. The closure of other establishments, such as Shipley Do-Nuts and SōDOUGH Baking Co., serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by local businesses in a competitive market. Nevertheless, Donut Kingdom, which first opened its doors in 2009, continues to thrive with three locations in the area. Furthermore, Dunkin’, a popular chain, has expanded its presence in the city with a dozen locations, highlighting the enduring demand for donuts among Tallahassee residents.
As the Tallahassee community bids farewell to Duck Donuts, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the local culinary landscape.