Dunkin’ Donuts to enter UK
US doughnut brand Dunkin’ Donuts is to enter the UK after signing a franchise agreement with The Court Group to open 25 outlets in East London over the next five years. In addition, DDMG Ltd, a partnership formed by three experienced US Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees and two local UK operators, will develop 25 Dunkin’ Donuts outlets in north London over the same period.
The chain is also in advanced discussions with additional franchise partners to help develop a total of 150 Dunkin‘ Donuts restaurants in the UK over the next five years, which includes the two signed agreements.
Giorgio Minardi, president of Dunkin’ Brands International, said: “We feel there is significant opportunity for Dunkin’ Donuts in the UK, and we have had a tremendous response from potential franchisees interested in developing the brand across the country.
“We are especially excited to begin the expansion of Dunkin’ Donuts into the UK with The Court Group and DDMG Ltd, two experienced franchisees who have a deep passion for the brand and a solid understanding of the local market. We look forward to working with them to make Dunkin’ Donuts’ high-quality beverages, baked goods and sandwiches part of the way of life in the UK.”
Never Miss a Retail Update!Dunkin’ Donuts currently has more than 10,500 restaurants in 31 countries around the world, including more than 100 locations across Europe in Bulgaria, Germany, Russia and Spain. As well as selling a range of doughnuts, muffins, croissants and sandwiches, the UK outlets will offer regional menu items specific to the UK to cater to local tastes and options.
Jim Johnstone, general manager, UK, for Dunkin’ Brands, said: “As we develop the Dunkin’ Donuts brand in the UK, we continue to look for qualified, multi-unit franchisee candidates who have a strong financial background, a deep knowledge of the local market, a proven track record of success in the restaurant industry and a desire to develop a minimum of 25 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in their market over the coming years.”
Dunkin’ Donuts’ sister brand, Baskin-Robbins, currently has 100 locations in the UK, including free-standing restaurants as well as concession locations in other shops and cinemas.
“Over the last 18 months, we have opened more than 10 new Baskin-Robbins locations with both existing and new franchisees. We are keen to continue the expansion of the Baskin-Robbins brand across the UK with multiple operators,” added Johnstone.
