Mall of America files eviction lawsuit against Duck Donuts

The Mall of America has filed an eviction lawsuit against the operators of Duck Donuts for alleged unpaid rent.

The lawsuit alleges the business owes $135,000 in unpaid rent dating back to 2022. It names Anslee Holdings LLC and Long Game Inc. as defendants.

Duck Donuts first opened at the megamall on the third floor in November 2021 , more than two years after it initially announced the location's plans. The franchise is owned by Justin and Desirae Butler, who also own the first Duck Donuts franchise in Minnesota, located in Woodbury.

The shop is known for its wide variety of donuts, including the option for customers to build their own flavor combinations. Coffee, sandwiches and retail items are also available on its menu.

According to the lawsuit filed on Wednesday in Hennepin County District Court, the business entered a lease with the mall on Nov. 15, 2021. However, a year into the lease, the filing says it failed to pay the rent owed.

As a result, the business assigned its rights under the lease from Anslee Holdings LLC to Long Game Inc. with the consent of the MOA's parent company.

The change, however, still resulted in unpaid rent, the lawsuit states.

"Disputes arose between [Anslee] Holdings and Long Game regarding the Assignment, so in April 2023, [Anslee] Holdings resumed control over the store’s operations," the filing says.

After yet another change, MOAC Holdings claims the unpaid rent issues persisted.

The lawsuit also claims the company failed to obtain and maintain a business and fire license from the City of Bloomington. The licenses weren't renewed and application fees weren't paid.

The MOA sent a notice regarding the money owed in March, but Duck Donuts still owes the amount in full as of Wednesday.

Bring Me The News reached out to Duck Donuts on Monday for comment but haven't heard back.

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