Tropical Smoothie Franchisee Adds Shipley Do-Nuts Locations

Dana Norman Plans Two Shipley Do-Nuts Locations in Raleigh

Dana Norman is expanding her franchise portfolio with plans to introduce two Shipley Do-Nuts shops to Raleigh, North Carolina.

The experienced business owner already operates a Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Greensboro. Her new development agreement represents another step in a career shaped by customer service, personal ambition and a desire to build something lasting for her family.

Norman’s journey into restaurant franchising was far from traditional. She spent approximately 20 years working in cosmetology before beginning a second career in the funeral industry, where she remained for another decade.

Cosmetology had been an early passion, and earning her professional licence allowed her to support herself while continuing her education. The field was also familiar because several members of her family had built careers in the industry.

Her later move into funeral services offered a different kind of opportunity. After completing the necessary licensing requirements, Norman found purpose in helping families through difficult and emotional moments.

Although neither profession involved restaurant operations, both taught her how to listen, build trust and provide thoughtful service. Those qualities eventually became part of her approach to franchise ownership.

A New Career Built Around Entrepreneurship

Norman had considered owning a business for years. As her career progressed, she began looking for an opportunity that could create long-term value and provide a legacy for her family.

She wanted to carry the compassion and personal attention developed through her previous careers into a new business environment. Franchising offered a way to pursue that goal with the support of an established brand and operating system.

Her first step was opening a Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Greensboro. That experience introduced her to restaurant franchising and prepared her to consider additional concepts.

When Norman began exploring her next investment, Shipley Do-Nuts stood out because of its longevity, recognizable products and potential for multi-unit growth.

Shipley Do-Nuts’ History Inspires Confidence

Shipley Do-Nuts was founded in Texas in 1936 and has grown to more than 393 locations across 12 states. Its history gave Norman confidence that the company had developed a durable business model.

The menu also played an important role in her decision. After sampling the products and reviewing the concept, she saw an opportunity to bring a well-established donut brand to more customers in North Carolina.

Norman was especially attracted to the combination of an experienced franchise system, scalable operations and products with broad consumer appeal. Together, those qualities made Shipley a strong fit for her growing portfolio.

She expects to open her first Raleigh-area location in 2027, followed by a second shop in 2028.

Shipley Do-nuts Targets Southeast Franchise Growth

The Raleigh agreement supports Shipley Do-Nuts’ broader expansion strategy. The company is focused on strengthening its presence throughout the Southeast while selectively entering additional markets in the Midwest and Southwest.

Rather than expanding too quickly, the brand is pursuing measured development in markets where it can establish regional density and support franchise owners effectively.

North Carolina currently has a limited Shipley presence, creating room for new operators to build local awareness. The company has also expanded into previously underserved areas of Texas and entered markets in Louisiana and Virginia.

Shipley Chief Development Officer Todd Brin believes the brand already benefits from recognition among former Texas residents now living in other parts of the country. The Southeast, in particular, has a substantial population familiar with Shipley’s donuts and kolaches.

Before a new shop opens, the franchise system uses local marketing to introduce the brand and generate interest. Ongoing promotional support is then used to encourage repeat visits and maintain customer traffic.

Community Connections Will Lead the Raleigh Launch

Norman sees Raleigh as an attractive market because of its growing population, active economy and expanding communities.

Opening two locations will allow her to establish a stronger presence from the beginning. Since Shipley Do-Nuts is still developing awareness in North Carolina, her strategy will focus heavily on community involvement and direct local engagement.

That approach closely matches what Shipley seeks in its franchise partners. The company generally signs development agreements for two to five locations and prefers owner-operators with strong professional experience.

Previous restaurant ownership can be helpful, but it is not the only qualification. Shipley also looks for individuals who understand customer service, leadership and community relationships.

Norman brings those qualities from three decades of working closely with people. Her experience in cosmetology and funeral services taught her how to serve customers with care, while her Tropical Smoothie Cafe ownership gave her practical experience within a franchise system.

With two Raleigh locations planned, Norman is combining her service-driven background with a proven restaurant brand. The expansion gives her another opportunity to grow as a multi-brand franchise owner while introducing Shipley Do-Nuts to a wider North Carolina audience.

Explore more about Shipley Do-Nuts Franchise opportunities.