WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Corp. will open its first store in South America on Oct. 24 with the opening of an outlet in Bogota, Colombia. Krispy Kreme is opening the store in partnership with its franchise partner, IRCC Ltda., a subsidiary of VA! Group.

“It feels incredible to be the first Krispy Kreme franchisee in South America,” said Felipe Baptiste Liévano, president of VA! Group. “We are eager to introduce this beloved brand and Krispy Kreme’s great-tasting donuts to the people of Bogota. We are confident that our fellow Colombians will enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness of the hot Original Glazed donut, and that the unique in-store experience of the Doughnut Theatre will bring smiles to the faces of guests of all ages.”

The 5,100-square-foot Doughnut Factory’s three levels feature indoor and terrace seating for 150 guests accessible by a glass enclosed stairwell and elevators. The focal point of the store will be Krispy Kreme’s iconic Doughnut Theater viewing area, where customers of all ages can watch the donut varieties being cooked, filled and topped in front of them anytime the Hot Doughnuts Now sign is on.

“We are excited to partner with IRCC Ltda. in bringing Krispy Kreme’s one-of-a-kind products and experiences to Colombia,” said Dan Beem, president of international of Krispy Kreme. “We look forward to joining in the grand opening celebrations as the Hot Light is illuminated for the first time in Bogota.”

The companies are expected to develop 25 stores in major cities throughout Colombia, including Bogota, Medellin and Barranquilla, over the next five years.