Just months after it said it was launching a program to remodel many of it more than 8,800 stores across the country, the Canton, Massachusetts-based Dunkin’ Donuts company has announced plans to build some 9,000 new locations, starting this year.
By more than doubling its shops, Dunkin’ Donuts would suddenly have a location edge on rival Starbucks, which to date has around 14,000 stores.
The new Dunkin’ Donut stores are expected to emphasize, among other things, drive-through features.
More details regarding the design and building plans for the new outlets will be released later this month.
Launched in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts currently has more than 12,000 outlets world-wide, with revenues in 2016 of over $828 million.
In January, the company introduced what it calls its first Next Generation Concept Store in Quincy, Massachusetts, a 2,200 square foot space with an open layout and emphasis on softer colors and natural lighting.
Most Dunkin’ Donut stores measure between 1,200 and 2,600 square feet, with construction costs varying between $50,000 and $250,000.
In an effort to attract Millennial Generation coffee-drinkers, Dunkin’ Donuts in recent years has expanded its coffee offerings to include flavored blends, as well as latte and espresso drinks.
The chain’s heaviest store concentration has traditionally been in New England and along the East Coast. Industry analysts believe any new Dunkin’ Donuts store expansion effort would have to see more outlet construction in states in the West.
By Garry Boulard
