"""

What does Dunkin's return plan for Puerto Rico include?

Dunkin' has taken a new step toward returning to the Puerto Rico market, which it fully exited in 2014. The company will oversee expansion on the island under an exclusive development and operating agreement signed with Puerto Rico-based Fusion Restaurant Group, with the first restaurants planned to open in 2027.

Described as the largest coffee and donut brand in the U.S., the company operates more than 14,200 restaurants in about 40 global markets. Founded in 1950, the brand has been part of Inspire Brands since 2020 and has recently accelerated its growth in both the U.S. and international markets.

Scope of the deal and business goals

Under the new agreement, Fusion Restaurant Group will manage Dunkin's growth in Puerto Rico and bring back the brand's coffee, cold beverages, donuts, breakfast sandwiches and other products to consumers. The company said details on the exact restaurant locations and the rollout schedule for future openings will be announced later.

The return stands out as part of the brand's strategy to re-enter markets where it previously operated and reshape its franchise network. Company management sees working with experienced operators who understand local market dynamics as a key part of its international expansion.

What figures stood out during Dunkin's exit from Puerto Rico?

Dunkin' operated in Puerto Rico between 2001 and 2014 and at one point reached 18 locations on the island. But when the franchise agreement ended in 2014, all stores closed, bringing the brand's 13-year presence on the island to an end.

That same year, the company filed a lawsuit against Wometco Donas Inc. and Wometco Donas Puerto Rico Inc. over allegations including breach of contract, trademark infringement and unfair competition. The case file referred to roughly $196,000 in unpaid royalties and renewal fees, and the process later ended with the contract being terminated by court order and the 18 locations stopping operations in October 2014.

What other steps are in the international growth strategy?

The Puerto Rico decision shows that Dunkin' is focusing not only on entering new markets, but also on restructuring existing franchise relationships. Other recent announcements from the company include:

  • Canada: In May 2026, a master franchise agreement was announced with Canadian restaurant operator Foodtastic. The first stores are expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027.
  • India: India-based Jubilant FoodWorks said it would not renew its Dunkin franchise agreement, which expires on December 31, 2026. The parties are expected to decide the next steps for the existing restaurants together.

The company also said in October 2025 that it had reached its 10,000th location in the U.S. The plan to return to Puerto Rico also points to an effort to sustain that momentum internationally.

"""