More than a decade after exiting a market where it once operated 18 locations, Dunkin’ is looking to reopen a chapter that ended following a contentious franchise dispute.
The coffee and donut chain has been pursuing new growth opportunities as it expands its footprint in the U.S. and internationally, including recent moves into markets where it previously operated.
Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ is the largest coffee and donuts brand in the U.S., with more than 14,200 restaurants in nearly 40 global markets. The chain became part of Inspire Brands in 2020, joining a portfolio that also includes Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy John’s, and Sonic.
Dunkin’ returns to Puerto Rico after 12 years
Dunkin’ is coming back to Puerto Rico in 2027 through a new partnership with Fusion Restaurant Group, a Puerto Rico-based restaurant operator that will lead the brand’s expansion across the island. The first locations are expected to begin opening in 2027.
Under the exclusive development and operating agreement, Fusion Restaurant Group will oversee Dunkin’s growth across Puerto Rico and bring the chain’s coffee, iced beverages, donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and other menu offerings back to consumers on the island.
Inspire Brands President and Managing Director, International, Michael Haley, said Dunkin’s international strategy focuses on working with experienced operators who understand 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 company announcement.
“Reconnecting longtime fans with the brand while introducing a new generation of guests to what makes Dunkin’ special.”
Fusion Restaurant Group CEO Mario J. Gaztambide said the company expects the brand’s existing recognition among Puerto Rican consumers to help support its return.
Additional details about restaurant locations and future openings will be announced as expansion progresses.
Why Dunkin’ exited the Puerto Rico market
Dunkin’ previously operated in Puerto Rico from 2001 until 2014, when all 18 locations on the island were closed following the termination of its franchise agreement with Wometco Donas Inc.
Earlier in 2014, Dunkin’ filed a lawsuit 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 in unpaid royalties and renewal fees.
The case sought to prevent the continued operation of the 18 Dunkin’ franchises without the company’s permission.
Dunkin’ eventually obtained a judicial annulment of the contract, and the 18 locations ceased operations in October 2014, bringing its 13-year presence in Puerto Rico to a close.
The planned return gives Dunkin’ an opportunity to rebuild its presence in a market where it says the brand still has strong awareness and affinity.
Dunkin’ comes back to Puerto Rico after 12 years.NurPhoto / Getty Images
Dunkin’ expansion plans
Dunkin’ has been accelerating its expansion over the last few years, reaching its 10,000th U.S. location in October 2025.
“Today, we’re not just celebrating this opening – we’re recognizing the guests who energize us to power forward, and the team members and franchisees who make it happen,” Inspire Chief Brand Officer and Dunkin’ President Scott Murphy said in a company announcement at the time.
“As we look forward to the next 10,000 restaurants, the momentum behind this brand has never been stronger. It feels good to be Dunkin’.”
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The Puerto Rico expansion 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 restaurant operator Foodtastic. The first locations are expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027.
The company is also facing a change in another international market. In April 2026, the India-based food service company Jubilant FoodWorks announced that it would not renew its Dunkin’ franchise agreement when it expires on December 31, 2026.
Jubilant FoodWorks currently operates Dunkin’ locations in India, and the companies are expected to determine the next steps for those restaurants as the franchise agreement approaches expiration.
Taken together, Dunkin’s moves in Puerto Rico, Canada, and India highlight an international strategy focused not only on entering new markets but also on reshaping its franchise relationships to pursue additional growth opportunities.
Related: Dunkin’ could exit an entire market in 2026 after 14 years
This story was originally published by TheStreet on Aug 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the Restaurants section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
