The founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes announced that they are closing all stores permanently

Sprinkles Cupcakes, bakery chain best known for its cupcake ATMs, is permanently closing all of its stores.

Candace Nelson, the company’s founder and former owner, confirmed the closing in an Instagram video, saying Wednesday, Dec. 31, was Sprinkles’ « last day of business. »

« A few days ago I learned that Sprinkles Cupcakes, company I started in 2005 and then sold it to a venture capitalist in 2012, I’m closing the bakery doors today, » Nelson said. « Just saying that out loud is completely surreal. »

Although he has had no operational involvement in the business since its sale in 2012, Nelson said he never thought the brand would end this way.

STEAK ‘N SHAKE TOUTS $2.50 ‘PATRIOT MILKSHAKE’ IN HONOR OF AMERICA’S CENTENNIAL

« I thought Sprinkles would continue to grow and be around forever, » Nelson said. « I thought that was going to be my legacy. »

Nelson also thanked the company’s customers and employees.

« I am deeply grateful to the fans, customers and the community that showed up, celebrated with us, and made Sprinkle a part of their tradition — and to the team that made it all happen, » he captioned the post. « I’ll always be proud of what we built. »

STARBUCKS CEO ACKNOWLEDGES AI « Co-PILOTS », NOT COMPENSATING EMPLOYEES ACCORDING TO COMPANY POLICY

Founded in Beverly Hills in 2005, Sprinkles has grown into a national brand with more than 20 stores in six states and Washington, D.C., and about two dozen cupcake ATMs. SFGATE reports.

The company was sold in 2012 capital investment firm KarpReilly Capital Partners for an undisclosed sum.

– After consideration, we have made the very difficult decision to move away from company-owned Sprinkles bakeries, Sprinkles Cupcakes spokesperson. told KTLA.

According to KTLA, it’s still unclear what will happen to the company’s cupcake ATMs.

The closing has sparked a swift backlash from Sprinkles employees, with several employees expressing their frustration in comments on the company’s Instagram page.

« Cupcakes are sweet. One-day layoff notices are not. Yep, what a bold way to celebrate 20 years and ring in the new year, » one user wrote.

HOLIDAY TREATMENTS SOLD AT ALDI RECALLED FOR POSSIBLE UNFREE PECANS, WHEAT: FDA

« Thank you for the one-day unemployment notice and not the severance pay! » another said.

« GIVED ALL COMPANY EMPLOYEES 1 DAY FREE THAT THEY NO LONGER HAVE A JOB! Sprinkles is closing all locations on 12/31 HAPPY NEW YEAR!! » another user wrote.

GET FOX BUSINESS STARTED BY CLICK HERE

Sprinkles did not immediately respond to FOX Business’ request for comment.