{
  "id": 10596576,
  "title": "Mister Donut returns to China after seven years",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/29/mister-donut-returns-to-china-after-seven-years",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-29T03:07:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Japan Times",
    "slug": "japan-times",
    "url": "https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2026/09/29/companies/mister-donut-china-reentry/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Shanghai residents are rejoicing as Mister Donut makes its triumphant return to the Chinese market after a seven-year absence. Japanese franchise owner Duskin inaugurated its first outlet in Shanghai on Monday, signaling a renewed presence on the mainland. The new takeaway store, located within a shopping mall, caters to local tastes with exclusive offerings such as banana-flavored doughnuts, a favorite among residents.\n\nDuskin's decision to re-enter the market is driven by the favorable business environment and consumer demand, according to a public relations official. The Shanghai store operates under a franchise agreement, with a local company handling day-to-day operations while Duskin supplies the necessary expertise.\n\nUpon tasting the new offerings, customers expressed their delight. A 44-year-old corporate worker, who waited in line for an hour, purchased strawberry-flavored doughnuts to share with her child. Meanwhile, a 28-year-old teacher relished a Pon De Ring doughnut, expressing satisfaction at being able to enjoy Mister Donut's signature treats once again.\n\nThe return of Mister Donut to Shanghai marks a significant moment for both the local market and the brand's global footprint.",
  "summary": "The new outlet in a Shanghai shopping mall — the chain's first since its 2019 exit — will offer exclusive products in addition to regular items.",
  "key_points": [
    "Mister Donut returns to China after seven-year absence",
    "First Shanghai outlet inaugurated by Duskin franchise",
    "Exclusive banana-flavored doughnuts cater to local tastes"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Mister Donut's return to China signals a win for local consumers seeking familiar international brands and a vote of confidence in the market's business environment from the Japanese franchise owner Duskin.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}