WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Patricia Perry has joined Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. as vice-president of U.S. franchise development.

Ms. Perry will be responsible for coordination of Krispy Kreme’s domestic franchising plans and will spearhead the company’s franchise recruiting efforts.

 “Patricia is an industry professional who brings current, relevant q.s.r. franchise development skills to Krispy Kreme,” said Cindy Bay, senior vice-president of U.S. operations and franchising. “We have expressed our intention to re-focus on domestic franchise growth at the appropriate time, and we are now ready to begin executing a focused strategy of franchise expansion in the United States.”

Ms. Perry’s 10 years of experience in multi-unit restaurant franchise marketing, business development and restaurant operations, includes several years with Church’s Chicken. She also owned her own restaurant, Jasabar Southern Cuisine Restaurant.

“As a former independent business owner, Perry has a unique understanding of what franchisees require in order to be successful,” the company said.

Krispy Kreme currently has 238 shops in the U.S., 142 of which are franchised.