Russ DiGilio, founder and owner of Duck Donuts Franchising Company LLC, has announced the expansion of his nationally celebrated donut franchises to Atlanta, Georgia, bringing the franchise total to 95 stores.

“Adding Duck Donuts as a food destination in the Atlanta neighborhood is an exciting advance for our company, and we are thrilled to be welcomed by the Fulton County community,” says Russ DiGilio. “Our expansion to the capital city of Georgia brings 25-40 new jobs with each new location. It also provides Jae Lee, the franchise owner, with an opportunity to live his dream of small business ownership.”

“We are in the process of planning three to four store openings in the suburban areas of Atlanta. Boasting over 35 million visitors per year and a Forbes Best Places for Business and Careers, Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation. We see a great opportunity to serve fresh, warm donuts and get involved with our growing communities,” says Jae Lee, first-time Duck Donuts franchise owner. “The Atlanta-area Duck Donuts will be a strong and dedicated philanthropic partner. We look forward to meeting all our future donut lovers!”

Duck Donuts emphasizes the importance of giving back to the local community through their #QuackGivesBack initiatives. "Our mission is twofold,” says DiGilio, “to serve the most amazing warm, delicious & made to order donuts and to contribute to the communities we call home. The #QuackGivesBack program donates a portion of donut sales to a local charity each month, as chosen by each franchise owner. In October, the entire franchising company will be joining together to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month by donating to the breast cancer treatment or research organization of their choice.”

The new Atlanta-area donut shops will have a variation of square footage with different features, including retail stores and indoor and outdoor seating that celebrates the franchise’s iconic beach theme.

As of August 26, 2016, Duck Donuts Franchising Company LLC has 95 donut shops signed, 25 Duck Donuts are open, and 70 Duck Donuts are projected to open in the next two years. “We are humbled by the incredible response to our made-to-order donuts and family-friendly environment,” says DiGilio. “This past year has been an amazing journey, and we are proud of our organic growth—all thanks to our customers who we consider family.”