Cops & Doughnuts marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 15th anniversary in Clare. The bakery, famously rescued by Clare Police Department officers 15 years ago, has become a cornerstone of downtown Clare, drawing visitors from around the globe.
When John and Lisa Gross noticed the closure of an electronics store last year in Clare, they seized the opportunity to expand the local business scene. Just two doors down from Cops & Doughnuts, they opened the McEwan Street Fudge and Ice Cream Shop, offering a variety of treats including fudge and gelato. Their shop, complemented by artist Jeff Best’s “Destination Clare” sculpture nearby, has thrived alongside other local businesses, benefiting from the influx of summer tourists.
Cops & Doughnuts itself has been instrumental in attracting visitors, often seeing lines extending through its storefronts during peak tourist seasons. Visitors from places as far as Louisiana make it a point to stop by for their famous doughnuts whenever they’re in Michigan.
To celebrate its anniversary, Cops & Doughnuts offered special promotions including deluxe dozens of doughnuts for a discounted price and free tote bags for larger purchases. Additionally, the bakery sponsored a free screening of the family-friendly movie “Peter Rabbit” at the Ideal Theater, complete with complimentary soda and popcorn for young attendees.
Reflecting on their journey, Vice President Greg Rynearson and President Al White expressed astonishment at the bakery’s growth since its humble beginnings. What started as a spontaneous decision by local police officers to save a century-old bakery has blossomed into a regional phenomenon, with additional locations in Mt. Pleasant, Gaylord, and Bay City, as well as smaller outlets in surrounding communities.
Despite challenges, including the closure of their diner due to space constraints, Cops & Doughnuts has persevered, even through the Covid-19 pandemic, serving as an essential local business. Matt Hamilton, the bakery’s revered “baking guru,” continued baking through the pandemic, highlighting the bakery’s commitment to its community.
As they celebrate this milestone, Rynearson and White encourage patrons to share their memories on social media, fostering a sense of community and celebration among their loyal customers.
The success of Cops & Doughnuts serves as a testament to the impact of community support and entrepreneurial spirit in small-town America, ensuring its place as a beloved fixture in Clare’s vibrant downtown scene.