American coffee and doughnut giant Dunkin’ is set to return to Canada nearly a decade after exiting the market, with plans to open hundreds of locations across the country through a new partnership with Canadian restaurant operator Foodtastic.
The expansion follows a master franchise agreement signed between Foodtastic and Inspire Brands, the parent company of Dunkin’. Under the deal, Foodtastic will hold exclusive rights to develop the Dunkin’ brand across Canada through both corporate-owned and franchised outlets. The first stores are expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027.
Foodtastic Founder and CEO Peter Mammas described the move as a “significant growth opportunity” for the company and its franchise partners. “We are committed to growing the Dunkin’ brand thoughtfully to meet the needs of Canadian guests and communities,” he said in the announcement.
Michael Haley, President of International at Inspire Brands, said Dunkin’s international business continues to gain momentum globally. “Foodtastic has a proven track record of successfully growing leading restaurant brands,” Haley said, adding that the partnership is built on shared operational expertise and long-term vision.
The comeback marks a major return for Dunkin’, which once operated hundreds of stores in Canada before steadily losing market share to rivals such as Tim Hortons. The brand officially exited Canada in 2018 after shutting its remaining Quebec locations.
Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ today operates more than 14,200 restaurants across nearly 40 global markets and remains one of the world’s largest coffee and doughnut chains. Its menu includes hot and iced coffees, espresso beverages, teas, sandwiches, snacks and doughnuts.
The Canada relaunch also strengthens Foodtastic’s growing relationship with Inspire Brands, after the Canadian operator previously partnered to expand Jimmy John’s in the country. Foodtastic currently manages more than 1,200 establishments across 27 brands, including Second Cup, Freshii and Pita Pit.
The Canada expansion also comes at a significant moment for Inspire Brands, which recently confidentially filed for a US initial public offering. The Atlanta-based restaurant giant, backed by Roark Capital, owns brands including Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins, Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy John’s and Sonic Drive-In, with more than 33,000 locations globally.
The renewed push in Canada comes at a time when Dunkin’ is also restructuring parts of its international business. In India, franchise partner Jubilant FoodWorks recently confirmed it will exit the Dunkin’ business after its franchise agreement ends in December 2026. Reports suggest Inspire Brands is in discussions to take back the India rights and identify a new local franchise partner as part of its long-term international expansion strategy.
Atlanta-based Inspire Brands has rapidly grown into one of the world’s largest restaurant companies since its formation in 2018. Its portfolio includes Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, SONIC Drive-In, Jimmy John’s, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins. The company operates more than 33,300 locations worldwide and generated over $33 billion in system sales in 2025.
