Joel Libava
Dunkin’ is heading back to Canada. And it’s big news.
Foodtastic, just signed a Dunkin’ deal in Canada with Inspire Brands.
The Master Franchise deal gives Foodtastic exclusive rights to develop the Dunkin’ brand across Canada. Both corporate and franchise-operated locations are part of the plan.
With that in mind, the first Canadian Dunkin’ is expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027.
Key Takeaways on the Dunkin’ Deal in Canada
Dunkin’ is making a serious move into Canada. Foodtastic secured exclusive rights to develop the brand nationwide. That means no competing operators. One company controls the rollout. The first location arrives in late 2026 or early 2027. Hundreds more are planned after that. This isn’t a test run. It’s a full-scale national expansion backed by Inspire Brands, one of the biggest restaurant companies in the world.
For franchise investors, this is the moment to pay attention. Foodtastic will handle franchisee recruitment directly. They’ve already proven they can grow a brand in Canada with Jimmy John’s. Dunkin’ has 75 years of brand recognition behind it. Canadian consumers know the name. That kind of built-in awareness matters.
Who’s Behind This Canadian Dunkin’ Deal?
Foodtastic isn’t a small player. The Montreal-based company operates 27 brands and more than 1,200 locations across Canada. Their portfolio includes Second Cup, Freshii, Pita Pit, and Quesada.
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As a matter of fact, they already have a working relationship with Inspire Brands through Jimmy John’s. This Dunkin’ agreement builds on that foundation.
And just so you know, Inspire Brands is the Atlanta-based parent company behind Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Baskin-Robbins, SONIC, and Jimmy John’s. Their portfolio now tops 33,300 locations worldwide.
What Will Canadian Dunkin’ Franchise Locations Offer?
Expect the full lineup. Hot and iced coffees. Espresso drinks. Teas. Donuts. Sandwiches. Snacks.
The menu will be familiar to anyone who has visited a Dunkin’ in the U.S.
The Dunkin’ Deal for Canada: Why Now?
Dunkin’ has been absent from Canada for years. The brand has more than 14,200 locations in nearly 40 markets globally. Canada was a notable gap.
Foodtastic CEO Peter Mammas called it “a significant growth opportunity.” Inspire Brands President of International Michael Haley pointed to Foodtastic’s operational track record as the reason for the partnership.
The numbers back that up. Foodtastic grew Jimmy John’s in Canada faster than expected. That success earned them this deal.
What This Means for Would-Be Franchisees
This is worth watching closely if you’re a Canadian entrepreneur interested in food service franchising.
Foodtastic will handle franchisee recruitment directly. Details on franchise opportunities will be released as development moves forward.
If you want to get ahead of it, they’re already pointing people to foodtastic.ca/dunkin for inquiries.
Finally, Dunkin’ has serious brand recognition. Canada has serious coffee demand. This combination could move fast once locations start opening.
Stay tuned.
(Main image courtesy of Dunkin‘)
About the Author
Joel Libava is The Franchise King® — an independent franchise advisor with 25+ years in the industry, two published books on franchising, and his writing has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, CNBC, Entrepreneur® Magazine and others. In addition, he wrote exclusively for the U.S. Small Business Administration blog for eight years. He doesn't sell franchises. Instead, Joel helps you figure out if franchise ownership is actually right for you — and if it is, teaches you his powerful, proven-to-work franchise research techniques, so you can make a smart, informed decision on a franchise to own and be your own boss.
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