Do-it-yourself kits have become a popular and effective way for bakeries and donut shops to give customers a treat and an activity during the coronavirus crisis. Now, major foodservice chains are getting in on the sales strategy.
Tim Hortons recently announced its own DIY Donut Kit. The company is currently marketing it as the perfect Mother’s Day gift for moms with a sweet tooth, as well as a fun activity for the entire family to do while at home.
The Tim Hortons DIY Donut Kit ($5.49) consists of six ring donuts, containers of chocolate and vanilla fondant and confetti sprinkles so customers can use their imagination and design donuts just for Mom.
Select Dunkin’ franchisees have also begun offering donut kits at their stores. Each box is filled with plain donuts and a variety of frostings and sprinkles.
One California Dunkin’ location has a four-donut option that includes strawberry, chocolate and vanilla frosting, and two varieties of sprinkles for $7.99. It also has a nine-donut option with the same three frostings and three varieties of sprinkles for $15.99.
“This is our small way of trying to brighten someone’s day,” says Dunkin’ franchisee Matt Cobo, a father of three. “The simple joy of getting to create your own donut can make kids light up, and if we can be a part of creating that moment, that makes us happy.”
“The reality of this experience has set in, and we know it’s not going anywhere anytime soon,” Cobo says. “Like most parents, we were looking for ways to entertain our kids and bring a little levity to this situation.”