What to know
- Nearly a decade after exiting the Canadian market, Dunkin’ will get hundreds of locations across the country.
- The first new storefronts are expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, featuring the brand’s signature iced coffees, espresso drinks, and classic donuts.
- While Toronto residents expressed excitement for new options, many remain loyal to staples like Tim Hortons.
Almost a decade after the last Dunkin’ (formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts) location closed in Quebec, the franchise is returning to Canada, with hundreds of locations set to open by the end of the year.
Restaurant operator Foodtastic announced on Tuesday that it has signed a franchise agreement with Inspire Brands to open the new Dunkin’ locations across the country.
“Bringing Dunkin’ back to Canada is a significant growth opportunity for Foodtastic and our franchise partners across the country,” Foodtastic Founder and CEO Peter Mammas said in a statement.
“We are committed to growing the Dunkin’ brand thoughtfully to meet the needs of Canadian guests and communities.”
According to the announcement, the first new location is expected to come to Canada by late 2026 or early 2027, promising a menu that will feature a range of hot and iced coffees, teas, espresso drinks, sandwiches, snacks, and of course, donuts.
Under the new signed agreement, Foodtastic says it will have exclusive rights to the Dunkin’ brand in Canada, managing market development, franchisee recruitments, and corporate and franchise locations operations.
Dunkin’ operated in Canada for decades before closing its last store in Quebec back in 2018 after franchisees sued the company for not properly promoting the brand.
The franchise is known for its iconic coffee flavours, including caramel, mocha and butter pecan, as well as its classic donuts such as the Boston Kreme and strawberries.
Will Torontonians be switching from Timmies to Dunkin’?
Now that Canada is about to get a new coffee and snacks spot, will residents consider switching up their go-to Tim Hortons or Krispy Kreme orders for Dunkin’?
Toronto resident and Tim Hortons’ avid consumer Tabuu T. tells Now Toronto he has never tried Dunkin but is certainly excited for the new locations’ arrival. However, Timmies and Krispy Kreme are still his go-to options for now.
“Tim Hortons, Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’ Donuts. I haven’t actually had Dunkin’ Donuts, but that’s the list,” he said.
Another resident, Trinity J. said she also hasn’t tried Dunkin’s signature flavours, but she is looking forward to it. Depending on her first try, she said she might consider changing her usual spots for the American franchise.
“I’ve seen they have really good iced coffee, so I would love to try it. It seems super sweet. It would be a good dessert [or a] good brunch date,” Trinity said.
On the other hand, Charlotte C. had actually never heard of Dunkin’, but said she doubts she would give up her usual Timmies.
“I would try it, but I know that I like Tims so much. I probably wouldn’t completely switch,” she explained.
The specific location of the upcoming Dunkin’ stores is yet to be revealed.
