Holy O No! Bitterby Plans Put on Hold. (Lore Post) (Patreon)

[Sugardale Times Archived article from August 4, 2019]

Sugardale sensation and local donut shop, Holy O's has announced that it will no longer be opening a new location in Bitterby, as previously planned. The new plans are due to a change in ownership, as the business has been sold to Arroyo Property Investments (API).

According to sources close to the situation, Barbara Miller, owner and lead pastry chef, was involved in a serious car accident last year. A drunk driver crashed into her vehicle, leaving her with serious injuries that have prevented her from continuing to run her business. In the wake of the accident, Miller was forced to sell her business. API have stepped in to buy the company and take over operations.

This change has been a shock to long-time fans of the local bakery. In a town that very seldom sees thriving, independently-owned businesses, Holy O’s was the epitome of family-owned success. Locals have been very vocal about their concerns with the change in ownership: 

“I start every single morning with a Holy O-Nut. Barb is the heart and soul of that place and never missed a day of work there. No one else can run that place like her, not some company, not some family, it can only be her.” Bruno Wright, a Sugardale native commented. 

“I was looking forward to that Bitterby location opening… That maple butter line sounded amazing. I woulda made the drive to try it, no doubt.”

We have reached out to Barbara Miller for an interview, but she declined. She responded to all media queries with the following statement on Monday:

“This was a hard decision, and I want every single customer we’ve had to know that I am doing what I can to make sure this transition is as smooth as can be. You all gave me the best years of my life, and I’m happy to see Holy O’s continue on in our strange little city. Peace, Love, and Frosting, Barb.” - Barbara Miller, former owner, Holy O's Donuts.

The sale was finalized this past Monday, the same day Bitterby's location learned it's fate. When asked to comment on the decision, a representative for API stated “…Bitterby is a small town filled with a rich history, but it does not make financial sense to open our next location there. We are looking to branch out to more lucrative markets. But perhaps in the future, we will revisit Bitterby.”

Arroyo Property Investments has plans to expand the Holy O's franchise, and has already announced the opening of a new location in the New Ambrosia. The new shop will feature a wider selection of donuts and other baked goods, including a new savory donut menu. 

All Sugardale and future locations are currently being renovated to include a full coffee bar and seating area. The Arroyo family is excited to continue the legacy of Holy O's and to provide customers with the same high-quality donuts and service that they have come to expect from the beloved local business.

Despite the change in ownership, Holy O's remains committed to providing its customers with the same delicious donuts and friendly service that they have come to know and love. Arroyo Property Investments is looking forward to continuing to serve the community and to provide customers with the sweet treats that they have come to crave. Holy O's is grateful for the support of its loyal customers, and looks forward to continuing to serve the Bitterby community for many years to come.

As a special treat to our loyal readers, Holy O’s has provided the Sugardale Times an exclusive look at its new, revamped menu below!

[This article was made possible in part by Arroyo Property Investments LLC, ]