In celebration of World Kindness Day, Krispy Kreme invites customers to spread joy with a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts, proving that even small treats can spark meaningful acts of kindness.
World Kindness Day, launched in 1998, calls on people globally to perform acts of kindness that transcend borders, creating a sense of shared humanity. The World Kindness Movement emphasizes the significance of the day, noting that it "offers a dedicated day to celebrate kindness through various activities and events." This observance encourages individuals to engage in acts that promote kindness, from sharing positive messages on social media to participating in community service.
In line with the spirit of World Kindness Day, on Nov. 13, Krispy Kreme will give the first 500 guests at each participating U.S. shop a free dozen Original Glazed® doughnuts. This includes both in-shop and drive-thru visitors, with no purchase necessary.
"World Kindness Day is a reminder that we can all make a positive impact in people’s lives, including through small gestures like sharing a sweet treat. We hope that each dozen Original Glazed doughnuts we give away enables and inspires many dozens of small acts of kindness," said Dave Skena, Krispy Kreme Global Chief Brand Officer.
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
The simple act of giving away doughnuts may seem small, but the effect of kindness often extends far beyond the initial gesture. The concept of "upstream reciprocity"—the idea that kindness can inspire others to pass kindness along to someone else—plays a central role in why brands like Krispy Kreme choose to celebrate days like World Kindness Day with free giveaways.
In a 2014 study titled The Social Contagion of Generosity, published in the journal PLOS ONE, researchers found that kindness can trigger a "ripple effect." This means that individuals who receive an act of kindness are not only likely to feel uplifted but are also inspired to perform prosocial acts toward others rather than merely reciprocating to the original giver. This effect can create a broader chain of goodwill, where a single small gesture sparks multiple acts of kindness within a community.
Building Community Through Kindness
Krispy Kreme’s free doughnut days—such as World Kindness Day and National Doughnut Day—align with its "Be Sweet" Responsibility Report, which emphasizes community engagement and fostering kindness. These initiatives are part of the company's broader strategy to build strong community connections and encourage acts of generosity. These giveaways invite customers to join community-focused celebrations, encouraging kindness and framing Krispy Kreme as a brand that values connection and goodwill.
A Sweet Gesture with a Deeper Meaning
For Krispy Kreme, the goal is not only to provide a treat but also to inspire a chain of goodwill. Giving away free doughnuts serves as a catalyst for small, thoughtful gestures that people may share with family, friends, or even strangers. This approach reflects a deeper understanding of how kindness can ripple outward, creating a culture where simple acts lead to larger, positive social outcomes.
This approach not only enhances brand loyalty but also reinforces Krispy Kreme's dedication to being a community-focused entity that values connection and generosity.
How to Get Your Free Doughnuts
Simply be among the first 500 people to any participating Krispy Kreme shop on Nov. 13. Check your nearest store for specific hours, and head in-store or to the drive-thru to receive a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts—no purchase necessary. It’s a simple way to enjoy and share a dozen with those around you.
As World Kindness Day shows, the sweetest moments are often the smallest. Through a simple doughnut, Krispy Kreme shows how kindness can bring us closer, reminding us of the power in thoughtful gestures shared with others—a commitment to community and connection at Krispy Kreme's core.
