How To Open a Dunkin' Franchise: A Step-by-Step Guide

With a legacy dating back to 1905, Dunkin' stands as a beacon in the food-and-beverage franchise industry. The brand has become synonymous with on-the-go coffee and a tasty menu at its 13,000 worldwide locations. 

If you're eager to be part of the brand that helps America "run on Dunkin’," here's a comprehensive guide on how to open a Dunkin' franchise.

Understand the Costs

Before beginning the franchise process, potential franchisees should evaluate the financial commitments required. Franchisees need a minimum of $250,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of $500,000 per restaurant. 

The traditional model (750-3,100 square feet) has a franchise fee ranging from $40,000 to $90,000, while the nontraditional option (from 500 square feet) has a franchise fee of $10,000 to $90,000. The total investment range is estimated to be between $121,400 and $1.8 million, depending on the model. 

Dunkin' doesn't offer financing directly. However, they have established partnerships with preferred lenders who can provide flexible financing options, including Small Business Administration (SBA)-backed loans for smaller transactions.

The Ideal Dunkin’ Franchisee

Dunkin’ says that its franchisees should have entrepreneurial passion, a background in sales or marketing, and a love for the brand’s products. Franchisees should be devoted to their customers and know how to lead a strong team of employees. They should also have the financial resources for single- or multi-unit opportunities. 

Submit a Franchise Application

Once you've assessed the costs and determined that Dunkin' is the right fit for you, the next step is to submit a franchise application online. As part of the application process, Dunkin' requires applicants to upload a resume. Following the submission, Dunkin' sends a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and qualification package, containing financial statements, the franchise agreement (a legal contract outlining expectations for both parties), a list of existing franchisees for inquiries and a breakdown of costs.

Complete a Business Plan

After the initial application review, successful candidates move on to the business planning stage. A meeting with a franchise manager outlines the next steps, providing an opportunity to seek advice from experienced franchisees. The business plan should encompass a market analysis, potential franchise locations, marketing and sales strategies, and detailed financial projections.

Be Approved

With an approved business plan, the next step is to sign a store development agreement, granting the right to develop a Dunkin' store within a specified geographical territory. Simultaneously, franchisees sign the franchise agreement.

Prepare for Opening

Upon approval, franchisees enter the Dunkin' brand training program, a 15-day immersive experience covering brand orientation and restaurant management. Access to online training programs supplements this education. Dunkin' provides support in development, real estate, construction, marketing and operations.

Following training, franchisees can proceed to design their stores with traditional branding from Dunkin'. The brand facilitates this process through an online shop offering brand-approved materials, marketing programs and additional resources.

And that’s it. By following this step-by-step process, passionate entrepreneurs can prepare to contribute to the brand that fuels America’s caffeine lovers.