Georgetown, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Southern Glazed Doughnuts, Georgetown’s beloved doughnut shop, served its last batch on August 7, 2023. The closure was attributed to increased lease costs, leading to emotional farewells from loyal customers. Owners Derran Broyles and his daughter Alex had cultivated a strong community bond, making the shop a cherished local institution for nearly 40 years. The loss of Southern Glazed Doughnuts reverberates throughout Georgetown, showcasing the vital role of local businesses in fostering connections among residents.
Georgetown
Southern Glazed Doughnuts served its last batch of treats on Thursday, August 7, 2023, marking the end of an era for the popular doughnut shop located on South Broadway. The closure was confirmed just a few days prior, on August 4, when the shop announced the decision on their Facebook page, expressing that the choice was made with a “heavy heart.” The final day saw overwhelming support from the community, with nearly all doughnuts sold out by 7 a.m.
The owners, Derran Broyles and his daughter Alex, purchased Southern Glazed Doughnuts approximately four-and-a-half years ago, and have since worked to build a loyal customer base. The shop, noted as the oldest in Georgetown, originally opened as a Dixie Cream franchise nearly 40 years ago. Over the years, its name and ownership changed several times, eventually transitioning to Southern Glazed Doughnuts while retaining some popular recipes from Mike’s Donuts.
On their final day, the atmosphere was described as chaotic, with long lines forming before the store’s opening. Customers not only flocked to buy doughnuts but also expressed their sadness through handmade cards, leaving messages such as “We’re going to miss you” and “Donut leave.” Staff members were taken aback by the emotional responses, highlighting the strong bond and affection the community had developed for the shop over the years.
The primary reason for the closure was attributed to cost-related issues, particularly a significant increase in lease costs. Broyles mentioned the struggle to locate affordable alternative locations within Georgetown that met the business’s needs. The limited availability of commercial properties, along with the rising costs of any available spaces, made it unfeasible for the shop to continue its operations in the area. As of now, Broyles indicated that the closure might be permanent due to the lack of viable relocation options.
No future plans for the property previously occupied by Southern Glazed Doughnuts have been made public, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the beloved shop’s legacy. Broyles expressed deep gratitude for the years of community support and reflected fondly on the small-town feel that the doughnut shop fostered. Both he and his daughter cherished the memorable moments they shared with customers, including visits from families and children before school, making the shop a cherished part of the local community.
As Georgetown residents come to terms with the loss of Southern Glazed Doughnuts, the impact of the closure reverberates throughout the community, a testament to the power of local businesses in creating connections and fostering relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Southern Glazed Doughnuts close?
The closure was primarily due to increased lease costs and the inability to find affordable alternatives in Georgetown that met the business’s needs.
What was the community’s response to the closure?
Many customers expressed their sadness through handmade cards and visited the shop to share emotional farewells, highlighting the strong community attachment to the business.
Will Southern Glazed Doughnuts reopen elsewhere?
As of now, there are no plans to reopen Southern Glazed Doughnuts at a new location due to the challenges in finding an affordable alternative in Georgetown.
How long was Southern Glazed Doughnuts in operation?
Southern Glazed Doughnuts has been in operation under its current ownership for approximately four-and-a-half years, with a legacy stretching back nearly 40 years as the oldest doughnut shop in Georgetown.
Key Features of Southern Glazed Doughnuts Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Day | August 7, 2023 |
| Reason for Closure | Increased lease costs and lack of affordable alternatives |
| Community Impact | Customers expressed sadness and support, left handmade cards |
| Ownership Duration | Approximately 4.5 years |
| Historical Significance | Oldest doughnut shop in Georgetown, originally opened as a Dixie Cream franchise |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- News Graphic: Southern Glazed Doughnuts Closes Doors
- Wikipedia: Georgetown
- FOX 56 News: Georgetown Donut Shop Support
- Google Search: Southern Glazed Doughnuts
- Eater DC: Restaurant Closings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgetown Restaurants
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