Dunkin’ Brands, the parent company of two of the world’s most recognizable brands, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, today announced that it has signed a master franchise agreement with Grand Parade Investments Limited (GPI) to begin developing Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins restaurants in South Africa. The agreement remains subject to GPI’s receipt of approval from the Financial Surveillance Department of the South Africa Reserve Bank. Under the agreement, GPI will develop more than 250 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants and more than 70 Baskin-Robbins shops in South Africa over the coming years, with an initial focus on Cape Town and Johannesburg. The agreement also calls for the introduction of Baskin-Robbins ice cream products to supermarket chains and convenience stores in South Africa over the next several years.
“As we continue our global expansion of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, we are delighted to work with GPI to bring both brands to South Africa,” said Bill Mitchell, President, Dunkin’ Brands International. “GPI has a wealth of experience in the local restaurant and retail industry, and a strong focus on operational excellence. We look forward to supporting GPI in their efforts to make Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins available to a growing number of customers in South Africa in the years ahead.”
Dunkin’ Donuts is one of the world’s leading coffee and bakery chains, with more than 11,500 restaurants in 40 countries worldwide. Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in South Africa will feature the brand’s wide range of high-quality hot and iced coffees, lattes, espresso, cappuccino, teas, Coolatta® frozen drinks, sandwiches, bagels, and donuts, all served fast in friendly, convenient locations and at a great value. The brand will also offer regional menu items to cater to local tastes.
Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, with more than 7,600 locations in nearly 50 countries worldwide. Baskin-Robbins shops in South Africa will feature the brand’s extensive selection of hard scoop ice cream flavors, as well as ice cream cakes, frozen beverages, ice cream sundaes and take home treats. Baskin-Robbins ice cream will also be available in select retail shops in the coming years.
“At GPI we work with world-class partners to develop brands that will resonate with South African consumers, which is why we’re thrilled to bring Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins to the market,” said Hassen Adams, Executive Chairman at GPI. “We aim to grow both brands and contribute significantly towards the South African economy while ramping up efforts to create more jobs.”