Krispy Kreme vende operaciones en Japón por $65M: Concentración estratégica y reducción de deuda

. The sale, the first of its kind since the company launched its turnaround plan in August 2025, underscores its focus on reducing debt and shifting to a more asset-light business model. The funds from the deal will go toward paying down debt and improving financial flexibility, as the company aims to reduce its leverage ratio and focus on high-potential markets. Unison Capital, a well-established private equity firm with a track record in managing restaurant and retail brands in Japan and South Korea, will take over operations. The decision reflects a broader shift in the brand's global strategy as it looks to streamline operations and focus on growth in core markets.

Why Is Krispy Kreme Selling Its Japan Business for $65M?

Krispy Kreme's sale of its Japan operations is part of a deliberate effort to reduce debt and shift its business model toward a more franchise-driven, asset-light approach. , the operations had required significant investment in logistics and infrastructure, which weighed on profitability. By refranchising, the company can offload the financial burden of maintaining company-owned locations while still benefiting from the brand's popularity in the region. Unison Capital, a firm with deep experience in Asian retail and restaurant sectors, is expected to drive long-term growth. This refranchising is not an isolated move—Krispy Kreme has already exited 2,400 McDonald's kiosks in the U.S. and closed unprofitable locations as part of its broader retrenchment strategy according to reports.

What Does This Sale Mean for Krispy Kreme's Debt Reduction Strategy?

, slightly below the 5x limit in its credit facility. The proceeds from the Japan sale will help the company reduce that leverage ratio further, . This is a critical step in the company's financial restructuring, as a lower leverage ratio will reduce interest expenses and improve long-term stability. The funds will be deployed after fees and expenses, but they represent a significant step toward a more sustainable capital structure. as reported.

What Comes Next for Krispy Kreme's Global Strategy?

With the Japan deal now set to close in Q1 2026, the company will likely look to apply similar refranchising strategies in other international markets. The shift to an asset-light model is expected to free up capital for strategic investments in key markets and new product development. Additionally, the company's —where large stores act as small factories supplying smaller retail locations—has proven complex and capital-intensive, prompting a reevaluation of its long-term logistics strategy. Investors will be watching for updates on future refranchising deals and progress on debt reduction, particularly as the company works to meet its leverage targets and stabilize its balance sheet.

What Retail Investors Should Watch Next

The next few quarters will be crucial for Krispy Kreme as it executes on its turnaround plan. Key metrics to track include quarterly debt reduction progress, the pace of refranchising, and performance in existing core markets. The company's upcoming earnings reports and investor updates will offer insights into whether this strategy is delivering the expected financial benefits. Meanwhile, the broader market may view this refranchising as a positive step, especially if it leads to improved profitability and greater financial flexibility. As the company continues to streamline its operations and focus on growth in high-potential markets, investors will want to see consistent progress on debt reduction and franchise expansion.