Foodtastic, a Montreal-based restaurant operator, is set to introduce Dunkin’ locations across Canada in a move to challenge the dominance of Tim Hortons. The company has partnered with Inspire Brands to bring back Dunkin’, one of the largest coffee chains in the U.S., to the Canadian market.
Initially focusing on Toronto and Montreal, Foodtastic plans to establish a strong presence in Ontario and Quebec before expanding to other provinces. CEO Peter Mammas expects the first Dunkin’ store to open within six months, with subsequent monthly openings thereafter.
Mammas described Dunkin’ as a trendy and youthful brand that fills a gap in the market. Although Dunkin’ had numerous Canadian outlets in the past, it exited the market in 2018 due to legal issues with franchisees in Quebec.
Despite the plans to introduce hundreds of Dunkin’ stores, marketing professor David Soberman believes it will not pose a significant threat to Tim Hortons, which boasts over 4,000 locations. He suggested that smaller chains might face challenges with the entry of a major player like Dunkin’.
Robert Carter, president of the Coffee Association of Canada, highlighted the potential for growth in the Canadian coffee sector, with similarities between the U.S. and Canadian markets.
While some customers express loyalty to Tim Hortons, others eagerly anticipate Dunkin’s return. Mammas emphasized the Canadian roots of the venture, stating that Canadian franchisees will operate the Dunkin’ stores.
Anticipation is building among customers like Jay Antflick, a Toronto-based flight attendant, who looks forward to reliving childhood memories associated with Dunkin’. Antflick, a frequent traveler to the U.S., plans to be among the first in line when Dunkin’ opens in Toronto, eager to order his favorite black iced coffee with hazelnut and seasonal flavors.
