Canton Whole Donut Shop Closes, Only One Left

CANTON, CT — And then there was one.

A once-thriving regional doughnut-and-coffee chain is now down to one store after it was announced this week the Whole Donut shop in Canton has closed and is being taken over by an Avon doughnut shop.

According to the Whole Donut Facebook site, the Canton franchise's owner — John Algérie — has retired.

According to the Hartford Courant, the location at 159 Albany Turnpike, Canton, will be taken over by Avon-based Luke's Donut Shop, which will reportedly add to the menu with the addition of hot breakfast sandwiches and other breakfast offerings.

At its peak, the chain — which dated back to the 1950s — had 40 shops in several northeastern states, including Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts and Vermont, the Courant reported.

Calling the Canton closing a "sad announcement," the Whole Donut said via Facebook the Enfield location at 920 Enfield St. is the last such franchise still in operation.

That franchise is open from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

In a landscape dominated by Dunkin Donuts and other chains, the Whole Donut's old-school menu and simple shop decor, reminiscent of a bygone era, was appreciated by its clientele.

Social media posts were full of well-wishers for Algiere and those expressing regret at what they said was their favorite doughnut-and-coffee place.

The posts also expressed optimism that Luke's would do well at the Canton site, citing their tasty treats available in Avon at 395 W. Avon Road.

For the full Hartford Courant report, click on this link.

For more information on the Whole Donut, click on this link.

For more information on Luke's Donut Shop in Avon, click on this link.