Today we’d like to introduce you to Allison Cunningham.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My husband, Peter, and I are both native Houstonians. I am a graduate of the UH Conrad N Hilton School of Hotel and Restaurant Management, and spent 18 years in various parts of the hospitality industry. Peter went to Texas A&M Galveston after serving five years as an airplane mechanic in the United States Navy, and further went on to work in the oil and gas industry. Our first Duck Donuts experience occurred during a family vacation in Corolla, North Carolina, where all 11 kids and 10 adults tried the product and fell in love with the assortment of flavors and the warm, freshness of the donuts. Pete and I knew before we even made it back to Texas that this customizable, fresh donut concept, was something special we wanted to share with the Houston community.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Nothing worthwhile is ever a perfectly smooth road! But overall, we really don’t have much to complain about. Harvey was a slight setback, but luckily didn’t wipe us out. We had our second child right after signing our franchise agreement, so we had to learn how to better manage our time between being full-time parents and preparing to open a new business!
Duck Donuts – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Our donuts are warm, delicious and made to order. The Duck Donuts experience is what makes us unique. Upon entering the store, customers are welcomed with the aroma of warm, light vanilla cake donuts, which are a little crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside and freshly made the moment you order them. Once the customer selects their coating, topping and drizzle combinations, our family-friendly store offers and viewing area where children and adults alike can watch their donuts being made from scratch to finish.
We are most proud of our Quack Gives Back program and our ability to integrate into our community. The Quack Gives Back program promotes partnering with community groups to raise awareness and funds for their causes. The staff and community can nominate any organization looking for donations or fundraising opportunities.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
We define our success by the health and growth of our brand, our ability to give back to our community, and the happiness and satisfaction of our guests and staff.
Pricing:
- Each doughnut costs $1.50 no matter how many toppings you choose.
- We are also starting our catering program very soon.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3157 West Holcombe Blvd.
Houston, TX 77025 - Website: www.duckdonuts.com
- Phone: 979-431-DUCK
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/duckdonuts.HoustonTX.VanderbiltSquare/
Image Credit:
Duck Donuts Franchising Company
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
