Sweet Opportunities for Brands on National Donut Day

Sweet Opportunities for Brands on National Donut Day

National Donut Day, celebrated on June 6, gives businesses a chance to sprinkle creativity into their marketing. Originating in 1938 as a fundraiser for The Salvation Army, the holiday now serves as a joyful occasion to celebrate indulgence, nostalgia, and community. For brands, it is the perfect opportunity to generate buzz, drive foot traffic, and engage audiences with lighthearted, shareable content.

Food and beverage companies can offer free donuts, limited-time flavors, or “buy one, give one” promotions. Non-food brands can join the fun too by hosting donut-themed giveaways, partnering with local bakeries, or delivering treats to employees and clients. The key is to tap into the happiness and togetherness donuts represent, creating authentic moments that make customers smile—and share.

Here are five actionable insights for marketers:

  • Offer irresistible deals: Feature free donuts, samples, or combo specials to draw attention and boost sales.
  • Engage on social media: Encourage customers to post their favorite donuts using a branded hashtag.
  • Partner locally: Team up with bakeries or coffee shops for cross-promotional campaigns.
  • Incorporate storytelling: Share the history of National Donut Day or your brand’s connection to it.
  • Create shareable content: Design fun visuals or videos that capture the playful spirit of the day.

 

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Matthew A. Gilbert, MBA, is a marketing lecturer at Coastal Carolina University, where he teaches advertising, consumer behavior, personal selling, and principles of marketing courses. Research-oriented, he focuses on artificial intelligence, the sharing economy, and social media, with a burgeoning interest in sports marketing. He also facilitates professional development workshops and has delivered three TEDx Talks. As a consultant, he crafts marketing content, creates business curriculum, and composes professional communications.