The Canadian restaurant franchisor is stepping up its coffee ambitions, bringing Dunkin’ back to Canada through an exclusive master franchise agreement covering hundreds of locations.
Canada’s competitive coffee market is set for a new battle as Montreal-based restaurant franchisor Foodtastic prepares to reintroduce Dunkin’, positioning the American coffee and doughnut chain against established players including Tim Hortons, McCafé and Starbucks.
The move marks a significant development in Foodtastic’s expansion strategy, as the company looks to leverage its franchise network and operational experience to build a stronger presence in Canada’s coffee and quick-service restaurant market.
Foodtastic has secured an exclusive master franchise agreement with Dunkin’s parent company, Inspire Brands, obtaining the rights to develop the brand nationally through a combination of franchised and company-operated restaurants. The agreement envisages hundreds of Dunkin’ locations across Canada, although a specific long-term unit target has not been publicly disclosed.
The first Canadian outlets are expected to open in late 2026, with the initial rollout targeting markets including Ontario and Quebec. Foodtastic founder and CEO Peter Mammas has indicated ambitions to accelerate development to approximately one opening per week within 12 months of launch.
Founded in 2016, Foodtastic has grown into one of Canada’s major multi-brand restaurant franchisors. The company operates a portfolio of approximately 27 brands and more than 1,200 restaurants across Canada, with concepts spanning coffee, fast-casual dining, full-service restaurants and quick-service food.
Its portfolio includes Second Cup Café, Freshii, Pita Pit, Quesada Burritos & Tacos, Noodlebox, Milestones and La Belle et La Bœuf, among others. The addition of Dunkin’ strengthens its position in the coffee segment, where it already operates Second Cup Café.
The partnership with Inspire Brands also builds on Foodtastic’s existing relationship with the American restaurant group. Foodtastic brought Jimmy John’s to Canada in November 2024, opening the sandwich chain’s first Canadian restaurant in Etobicoke, Ontario.
Dunkin’s return marks its second attempt to establish a significant presence in Canada. The brand previously operated hundreds of locations, particularly in Quebec, before exiting the market in 2018 following prolonged difficulties with its franchise network.
Globally, Dunkin’ operates more than 14,200 restaurants across nearly 40 markets. Its Canadian offering is expected to include hot and iced coffees, espresso beverages, doughnuts, breakfast sandwiches and other quick-service products.
The relaunch will place Dunkin’ in direct competition with Tim Hortons, Canada’s dominant coffee and doughnut chain, alongside McDonald’s McCafé and Starbucks. For Foodtastic, the opportunity lies in combining Dunkin’s international brand recognition with its established Canadian franchise infrastructure to build a nationwide network.
