​Dunkin's Big Leap: Doubling UK Stores in Two Years

Dunkin', the renowned American coffee and doughnut chain, is embarking on an ambitious UK expansion. It intends to open a major store in London, beginning a robust 'aggressive extension plan'. This strategy aims to double the number of Dunkin' outlets across the UK within two years.

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The new outlet, on Wardour Street in Soho, is the second Dunkin' outlet in London. The company anticipates further openings throughout the city before this year concludes. The expansion trail began in 2016 when the OFM Group, acting as the licensee, launched the first Dunkin' in Liverpool. Since then, the brand has grown, boasting 30 locations throughout England. They are optimistic about increasing this figure to 40 by the end of 2023.

Arjun Patel, a director at QFM Group and the UK licensee for Dunkin', expressed excitement over the expansion and revealed the brand's successful traction in northern England. "Following our initial success up north and alongside our popular Baker Street location, we're eager to further penetrate the London market. The demand is palpable, with significant social media outcry from fans. The upcoming store launches in the capital are indeed a response to that enthusiasm," Patel explained.

In light of the Soho store's launch, Dunkin' orchestrated a unique 'Dunkin' Diversion' campaign. This initiative involved a yellow cab circulating the store's vicinity, distributing promotional codes for complimentary coffee. Additionally, ardent doughnut aficionados had the chance to secure a year's supply of free treats from Dunkin'.

Michael Haley, President and Managing Director of International Operations at Inspire Brands (the parent company of Dunkin', Arby's, and Baskin Robbins), commented on the strategic move. "Establishing a flagship store in London is a critical step in our global growth endeavour. It aligns perfectly with our commitment to energising people worldwide with top-notch coffee and delightful doughnuts," Haley asserted.

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Dunkin' takes pride in a diverse menu, featuring doughnut flavours such as Maple Chocolate, Strawberry Rainbow, and Rocky Road, accompanied by a variety of beverages, muffins, cookies, and pastries.

In the current year, the UK Dunkin' outlets have witnessed the sale of 1.4 million beverages and 2.2 million doughnuts, highlighting promising growth prospects. Globally, Dunkin' stands as a leading coffee and doughnut chain in the United States, with a presence spanning 13,200 locations in 38 international markets.

Mirroring this expansion strategy, Canada's Tim Hortons has also seen substantial UK growth. Since establishing its first London store in 2022, following its UK launch in Glasgow, Tim Hortons has flourished, now operating over 70 outlets across the country.