News

Dunkin' Donuts breaks into UK market

September 12, 2013

Dunkin' Donuts announced that it has signed agreements with two franchise groups to begin developing restaurants in the United Kingdom. The two agreements call for the development of 50 Dunkin' Donuts restaurants in Greater London throughout the next five years, with an initial focus on North London and East London.

The chain is also in advanced discussions with additional franchise partners to help develop a total of 150 restaurants in the UK within the next five years, which includes the two signed agreements.

The Court Group, chaired by UK businessman David Sheepshanks, CBE, has signed a franchise agreement with Dunkin' Donuts to open 25 restaurants in East London throughout the next five years.

DDMG Ltd., a partnership formed by three experienced U.S. Dunkin' Donuts franchisees from the Baltimore/Philadelphia area and two local UK operators, has signed an agreement to develop 25 restaurants in North London throughout the next five years.

"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," said Giorgio Minardi, president, Dunkin' Brands International. "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."

"The UK is a dynamic market, and we believe that Dunkin' Donuts' innovative combination of great-tasting food and beverages served in a fast, friendly and fun environment will appeal to the people of Great Britain. We are excited about the opportunity to bring Dunkin' Donuts to North London, and we look forward to serving our guests Dunkin' Donuts' famous coffee and snacks to get them going in the morning and throughout the day," added Neil Patel, director of DDMG Ltd.

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.

The brand's UK system will feature its signature coffees, teas, espresso-based beverages, Coolatta frozen drinks, donuts, muffins, croissants and sandwiches. The brand will also offer regional menu items specific to the UK to cater to local tastes and options from its DDSMART lineup.

The company continues to look for qualified multiunit franchisee candidates to develop a minimum of 25 restaurants in their market.

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.

Read more about franchising and growth.