Foodtastic, a Montreal-based restaurant operator, aims to introduce Dunkin’ to the Canadian market, despite the dominance of Tim Hortons. The company has partnered with Inspire Brands to bring the renowned American coffee chain back to Canada. Initially focusing on Toronto and Montreal, Foodtastic plans to establish a presence in Ontario and Quebec before expanding to other provinces.
According to Peter Mammas, CEO of Foodtastic, the rollout will commence within six months, with a target of opening one store per month. Mammas highlighted Dunkin’ as a youthful and trendy brand that fills a gap in the market.
Dunkin’, formerly Dunkin’ Donuts, had numerous Canadian locations until 2018 when it exited after facing legal challenges from Quebec franchisees. Selling coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches, the chain aims to win over Canadian consumers once again.
David Soberman, a marketing professor at the University of Toronto, believes that while Dunkin’ plans to open hundreds of stores, it poses no major threat to Tim Hortons with over 4,000 outlets. Smaller chains may face challenges in a market already dominated by established players.
Robert Carter, president of the Coffee Association of Canada, sees growth opportunities in the Canadian coffee industry, noting similarities in consumer trends with the U.S. market. Mammas assures that Dunkin’s Canadian expansion will involve local franchisees, emphasizing a distinctly Canadian approach.
While some customers express loyalty to Tim Hortons, others eagerly anticipate Dunkin’s return. Toronto-based flight attendant Jay Antflick reminisces about Dunkin’s popularity in the northeastern U.S., eagerly awaiting the brand’s arrival in Canada. Antflick, a frequent visitor to Dunkin’ in the U.S., plans to be among the first customers in line on opening day in Toronto.
Overall, the Canadian coffee market appears receptive to Dunkin’s return, offering consumers a fresh alternative in the competitive coffee landscape.