More than a decade after leaving the market amid a franchise dispute, Dunkin’ returns to Puerto Rico in a move that revives a presence the brand once had across 18 locations.
The coffee and donut chain has been pursuing new growth in the United States and abroad, including reentering territories where it previously operated. Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ is the largest coffee and donuts brand in the United States, with more than 14,200 restaurants in nearly 40 markets worldwide. It joined Inspire Brands in 2020, alongside Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy John’s, and Sonic.
Dunkin’ returns to Puerto Rico after 12 years
Dunkin’ is slated to reenter Puerto Rico in 2027 through an exclusive development and operating agreement with Fusion Restaurant Group, a Puerto Rico-based operator that will lead the brand’s islandwide expansion. Initial openings are expected to begin in 2027.
Under the agreement, Fusion Restaurant Group will direct growth across the territory and reintroduce Dunkin’s coffee, iced beverages, donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and other menu items to consumers on the island.
According to Inspire Brands President and Managing Director, International, Michael Haley, the company’s international approach emphasizes partnering with experienced operators who know their local communities.
“Puerto Rico represents a compelling opportunity to expand Dunkin’s presence in a market where the brand already enjoys strong awareness and affinity,” Haley said in the announcement, adding that the return will reconnect longtime fans while introducing new guests to the brand.
Fusion Restaurant Group CEO Mario J. Gaztambide said the brand’s existing recognition among Puerto Rican consumers is expected to support its comeback. Details on specific sites and subsequent openings will be shared as development advances.
Why Dunkin’ exited the Puerto Rico market
Dunkin’ operated in Puerto Rico from 2001 until 2014, when all 18 locations closed after the company terminated its franchise agreement with Wometco Donas Inc.
Earlier in 2014, Dunkin’ filed suit against Wometco Donas Inc. and Wometco Donas Puerto Rico Inc., alleging breach of contract, trademark infringement, unfair competition, and trade dress infringement, as well as approximately 196,000 dollars in unpaid royalties and renewal fees.
The case sought to halt operation of the 18 Dunkin’ franchises without authorization. Dunkin’ ultimately obtained a judicial annulment of the contract, and the locations ceased operations in October 2014, ending the company’s 13-year run on the island. The planned return gives Dunkin’ an opportunity to rebuild in a market where the company says the brand retains strong awareness and affinity.
Dunkin’ expansion plans
Dunkin’ has accelerated expansion in recent years, reaching its 10,000th U.S. location in October 2025.
At the time, Inspire Chief Brand Officer and Dunkin’ President Scott Murphy said the company was celebrating guests, team members, and franchisees who fuel its growth, adding that momentum behind the brand “has never been stronger.”
The Puerto Rico initiative comes as Dunkin’ continues to pursue international growth. In May 2026, the company announced its return to Canada through a master franchising agreement with Canadian operator Foodtastic, with first openings expected in late 2026 or early 2027.
The company also faces a shift in another market. In April 2026, India-based Jubilant FoodWorks said it would not renew its Dunkin’ franchise agreement when it expires on December 31, 2026. Jubilant currently operates Dunkin’ locations in India, and the companies are expected to determine next steps for those restaurants as the agreement nears expiration.
Taken together, the developments in Puerto Rico, Canada, and India reflect an international strategy that focuses on entering or reentering markets while reshaping franchise relationships to support additional growth. Those changes echo broader trends in how companies adjust to shifting demand, similar to how commercial real estate bidding has responded to evolving market conditions.