Krispy Kreme and Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. have joined forces to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the iconic video game Pac-Man with a limited-edition doughnut collection and a series of sweet deals. The collaboration, launching on May 12th, promises a nostalgic trip down memory lane for Pac-Man enthusiasts while offering Krispy Kreme fans an array of delicious treats.
The centerpiece of the partnership is the Krispy Kreme x Pac-Man Collection, featuring three brand-new doughnut flavors packaged in a custom Pac-Man-themed dozen box. Details on the specific flavors remain eagerly anticipated, but Krispy Kreme has hinted at a playful blend of sweet and fruity notes inspired by the classic arcade game.
Beyond the specialty collection, Krispy Kreme is generously giving away 45,000 free Original Glazed doughnuts between May 12th and May 18th. The free doughnut giveaway will occur during "hot light hours," which are typically from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, or whenever the hot light is illuminated at participating locations. A limit of one free Original Glazed doughnut per guest per day applies, both in-shop and via drive-thru. This promotion seeks to generate excitement and draw in customers eager to experience the signature Krispy Kreme taste.
Adding another layer of fun, Krispy Kreme will transform its popular Doughnut Dots into "Pac-Dots" from May 12th to May 14th. Customers can receive a complimentary 10-count of Pac-Dots with the purchase of any dozen doughnuts at the regular price. This promotion offers a bite-sized taste of Krispy Kreme’s offerings while playfully referencing Pac-Man’s insatiable appetite.
The celebration culminates on May 22nd, Pac-Man’s official birthday, with a special deal: a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for just 25 cents with the purchase of any dozen at the regular price. This enticing offer presents an opportunity for customers to share the joy of Krispy Kreme doughnuts with friends and family while honoring the enduring legacy of Pac-Man.
The Krispy Kreme x Pac-Man Collection and related promotions will be available at participating Krispy Kreme shops, as well as for pickup or delivery through the Krispy Kreme app and website. Customers can purchase the doughnuts individually or by the dozen. For added convenience, a Krispy Kreme 6-pack box will be delivered fresh daily to select retailers.
Dave Skena, Krispy Kreme’s Chief Growth Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "These all-new PAC-MAN doughnuts are sweetest in multi-player mode. So, press start on a dozen and chomp on a maze of flavors with family, friends and coworkers." He further remarked, "Partnering with Bandai Namco and Pac-Man is a new high score of sweetness."
Karim Farghaly, Senior Vice President, Business Innovation and Licensing at Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc., echoed Skena’s sentiment, saying, "This year marks an incredible milestone as we celebrate PAC-MAN’s legacy and his 45 years of impact." He added, "We are thrilled to partner with Krispy Kreme, another beloved iconic brand, to deliver a sweet experience for fans to enjoy just in time for PAC-MAN Day."
The partnership between Krispy Kreme and Bandai Namco highlights the power of cross-promotional marketing and the enduring appeal of nostalgia. By tapping into the widespread love for Pac-Man, Krispy Kreme hopes to attract a broader customer base, generate buzz on social media, and drive sales.
The announcement arrives amidst a period of adjustment for Krispy Kreme, as the company reassesses its doughnut rollout at McDonald’s due to ongoing economic uncertainty. Despite this development, the collaboration with Bandai Namco demonstrates Krispy Kreme’s commitment to innovation and its ability to create engaging and memorable experiences for its customers.
The 45th anniversary of Pac-Man is a significant milestone for the video game industry, representing the game’s lasting influence on pop culture. The collaboration with Krispy Kreme serves as a testament to Pac-Man’s continued relevance and its ability to transcend generations. For fans of both Pac-Man and Krispy Kreme, this partnership offers a delightful opportunity to celebrate a beloved icon while indulging in a sweet treat. The promotion aims to capture the essence of Pac-Man’s playful spirit and translate it into a delicious and shareable experience.
The Krispy Kreme x Pac-Man Collection is expected to generate considerable excitement and anticipation among fans. The blend of iconic branding, unique doughnut flavors, and enticing promotions creates a compelling offer that is likely to resonate with a wide audience. As Krispy Kreme continues to adapt to changing market conditions, partnerships like this one demonstrate the company’s creativity and its ability to maintain its position as a leading doughnut brand. The Pac-Man collaboration provides a sweet and nostalgic reminder of a classic video game while reinforcing Krispy Kreme’s commitment to delivering moments of joy to its customers. The merging of these two iconic brands offers a unique opportunity to create a memorable experience that resonates with both longtime fans and new customers alike.
