With the lazy days of summer behind us, Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, welcomes the new season with an autumn array of delicious food and beverages that feature the traditional tastes of apple and pumpkin. Whether you’re raking leaves or racing to the football game, savor the season with the return of Dunkin’ Donuts’ famous Pumpkin Coffee and Latte, Pumpkin Donut and Munchkin donut hole treat, a new Pumpkin packaged coffee to brew at home or work, hot or iced Apple Cider, a new Caramel Apple Donut and more.

Available at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide, the fall harvest menu lineup includes:

• Pumpkin Coffee and Latte: A guest favorite, Dunkin’ Donuts has once again added some pumpkin spice to its coffee and latte beverages. Available in both hot and iced, these offerings are an ideal pairing for pumpkin bakery items.
• New Pumpkin Packaged Coffee: This fall you can brew the best pumpkin coffee at home or work with Dunkin’ Donuts’ new Pumpkin packaged coffee. Available in a special 8 oz. size, Dunkin’ Pumpkin packaged coffee sells for the suggested price of $5.99.
• Pumpkin Donut and Munchkins: The glazed pumpkin cake donut is a fan favorite. The delicious taste can also be enjoyed as a Munchkin donut hole treat.
• Pumpkin Muffin: Topped with white icing and streusel crumbs, Dunkin’ Donuts’ Pumpkin Muffin complements the other seasonal menu items for a delicious fall treat.
• New Caramel Apple Donut: To spice up the season, Dunkin’ Donuts’ newest donut is a Caramel Apple flavored old fashioned cake donut coated with cinnamon sugar.
• Apple Cider: For traditional autumn refreshment, Dunkin’ Donuts’ Apple Cider is served hot or iced.

“Autumn is a nostalgic time of year, as cooler temperatures and changing leaves evoke fond memories of family and the beloved scent and taste of seasonal flavors such as pumpkin and apple,” said Dunkin’ Brands Executive Chef and Vice President of Product Innovation Stan Frankenthaler. “Many of our guests anxiously await the return of our fall flavors so they can enjoy the traditional, comforting tastes of the season any time during their busy day, and we enjoy helping people celebrate this time of year by bringing back fan favorites such as pumpkin coffee and muffins, as well as introducing new seasonal treats like the Caramel Apple Donut.”

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the regular/decaf coffee, iced coffee, hot flavored coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned the No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for five years running. The company has more than 9,700 restaurants in 31 countries worldwide. In 2010, Dunkin’ Donuts’ global system-wide sales were $6 billion. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is a subsidiary of Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: DNKN).

Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, today announced its location-based promotion through Foursquare and Facebook, “Be The President Of Dunkin’ Nation.” The promotion, set to run for five weeks, allows guests who check in at Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide between August 22 and September 23 the chance to be named the “President of Dunkin’ Nation” and win a “Presidential Prize Package.”

To participate, fans of Dunkin’ Donuts must register for the contest on the Dunkin’ Donuts Facebook Page and select to check in through the Facebook application and/or Foursquare. Once registered, fans can check in once per hour up to 10 times per day at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants. At the end of each week, the fan with the most check ins has the chance to be named the President of Dunkin’ Nation.  Throughout the promotion, fans will have the opportunity to check the leaderboard, which will be updated periodically on the Dunkin’ Donuts Facebook Page, to see where they stand in the race. No purchase is necessary to participate and additional information can be found in the official rules: http://dunkin.placepunch.com/terms-of-service/.

Five Grand Prize Presidential Prize Packages will be awarded, one for each week of the promotion, consisting of a 50″ LCD TV, a Dunkin’ Nation President $200 personalized Dunkin’ Donuts Card, an exclusive Dunkin’ Nation President T-Shirt and a Dunkin’ Nation President mug.  Additionally, anyone who checks in at least once each day will be automatically entered into the daily sweepstakes for a chance to win a $25 Dunkin’ Donuts Card.

“Our goal with this promotion is to celebrate our passionate community of Dunkin’ Donuts fans,” said Dan Saia, V.P. Consumer Engagement at Dunkin’ Brands. “We foster a strong sense of community and celebrate our fans’ dedication on Facebook and Twitter, and feel there is no better way to recognize someone for their loyalty to the brand than to proclaim them the President of Dunkin’ Nation.”

While other restaurant chains are struggling in the current poor economy of the country, McDonald’s is still soaring ahead. Franchisees see great success due in part to the skills and genius of CEO Jim Skinner. He’s turned the company around since joining the McDonald’s Corporation in 2004 with a growth in sales of 5%.

OpenTable has announced the winners of their Top 50 Restaurants for Late Night Dining. The company used over 10 million reviews to compile the best in this category from across the country. 5 locations of the B.B. King’s Blues Club received top ranks in different cities like Las Vegas and Tennessee. New York had the most spots with four.

Buzztime provides great games and entertainment to bars and taverns around the country with innovative computer systems. The system will soon launch a new football game called The Season. The game will only be available on Friday nights throughout September. Players from all states will play live football trivia games and win great prizes.

Hooters has a new President and CEO. Terrance Marks is joining the company from The Pantry, a large chain of full-service convenience stores. He also gained valuable experience with 21 years at Coca Cola in various finance, sales and distribution positions. The change came as part of new ownership under a group of private investors.

TCBY, also known as The Country’s Best Yogurt, was founded nearly 30 years ago. The chain still has over 600 locations today and continues to grow. To celebrate the milestone anniversary the company plans to host a promotional 30% coupon on their Facebook page. Fans can also enter to win free frozen yogurt through the page.

Applebee’s, through a partnership with the Corner Bakery Cafe chain, has raised over $350,000 for the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. The funds will help support the fight to end childhood cancer. The two chains have raised money during the past seven summers for the charity, with a grand total of over $2 million dollars.

Spicy Pickle Sandwich Company recently opened their newest franchised location in Minot, South Dakota. The store’s grand opening celebration was met with record sales and excitement from the community. The restaurant uses the newest store layout and menu and serves breakfast, a relatively new feature for the chain.

A new Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers restaurant opened in Fayetteville, North Carolina on Monday, August 29^th. The franchise location is owned by Reid Fogleman. The restaurant offers the full menu from the brand, including gluten free crust options for diners with food allergies. The full-service bar and wide selection of beer is another draw.

Yogurtini, a self-serve yogurt chain that began in 2008, has announced the grand opening of its 12^th location. The new restaurant will open in the Denver Tech Center in Denver, Colorado. To celebrate the location will be giving away free frozen yogurt to guests on the grand opening day, which will be August 27^th.

Dunkin’ Donuts has signed a new development agreement with Southern Food Services. The company will develop four new locations in the Huntsville area of Alabama. One of the restaurants will be open by the end of next year. The company is owned and operated by the Robinson family, but other franchise opportunities are still available around the state.

Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants are an institution in New England and popular along much of the East Coast. The company’s richly valued shares now are priced as if the coffee and doughnut chain will duplicate that success in the rest of the country, and that’s a tall order.

Investors snapped up shares of Dunkin’ Brands (ticker: DNKN), the parent of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, when the stock went public a month ago at 19. It finished the first day of trading close to 28, and fetched 26 on Friday.

At that price, Dunkin’ trades for a premium to most restaurant stocks, including Starbucks (SBUX), McDonald’s (MCD), DineEquity (DIN) and Tim Hortons (THI), a Canadian chain. Dunkin is valued at 34 times 2010 pro forma earnings of 76 cents a share, a figure that makes certain adjustments to actual financials, including lower interest costs that reflect the company’s reduced debt since last year.

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Dunkin’ Donuts has announced the signing of a multi-unit store development agreement with the Robinson Family and Southern Food Services, Inc. for four new restaurants in Northern Huntsville, Alabama.  The first restaurant is slated to open in 2012 and the remainder by 2016.

“We are excited to bring Dunkin’ Donuts’ to Northern Huntsville and play an important role in the daily lives of people who live, work and visit here,” said Blake Robinson, Vice-President, Southern Food Services, Inc. “We have a passion and loyalty for the brand and look forward to the opening of our restaurants in the years to come.”

“Dunkin’ Donuts is excited to expand into Northern Huntsville,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. “Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day. We believe the Robinsons will cultivate lasting customer relationships in the Northern Huntsville area and become an integral part of their communities.”

Franchise opportunities are still available in Alabama, specifically in Birmingham, Dothan, South Huntsville, Guntersville, Decatur, Athens, Scottsboro and Muscle Shoals.  To drive its expansion efforts, Dunkin’ Donuts has aligned its strategy to support the growth opportunities and consumer needs of individual markets.  As a result, the company continues to expand with single and multi-unit opportunities with no minimum unit requirements.

Building a solid network of stores within a market enables Dunkin’ Donuts to invest in a distribution model that provides a consistent, high-quality product guests expect “in the way and on the way” of their daily routines.  In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers flexible concepts for any real estate format including free-standing restaurants, end caps, in-line sites, gas and convenience, travel plazas, universities, as well as other retail environments.

According to Benson, “Dunkin’ Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day.  Our recent and ongoing menu enhancements meet the needs of today’s on-the-go consumers, providing them a convenient place where they can get high-quality products any time of the day.”

Historically a doughnut and hot coffee chain, Dunkin’ Donuts has expanded its offering to include frozen and iced beverages, a full bakery assortment including bagels and muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and an all-day Oven-Toasted menu, which includes flatbread sandwiches, hash browns and buttermilk biscuits. The platform marks the most significant change to Dunkin’ Donuts’ product lineup since the company launched espresso-based beverages in 2003.

For information on franchise opportunities or to attend an upcoming webinar, please visit www.dunkinfranchising.com.

Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc., the parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, announced today the appointment of Michael F. Hines to the Dunkin’ Brands Board of Directors.  Mr. Hines will also serve as the Chair of the Audit Committee.

“We are very pleased to welcome Michael to the Dunkin’ Brands Board of Directors, and look forward to his leadership as Chairman of our Audit Committee,” said Nigel Travis, Chief Executive Officer, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. and President, Dunkin’ Donuts U.S.  ”Given his broad financial, retail and Board experience, he will be an invaluable resource for the Company as we begin a new chapter as a public company and continue to execute our strategy to grow our brands globally.”

Hines has more than 30 years of experience as a financial executive and certified public accountant, including 21 years in the retail industry. In addition to his industry expertise, Hines brings an extensive background in accounting, controls, financial reporting, tax, finance, risk management and financial management.  Hines served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc. from 1995 to 2007, where he oversaw significant growth and expansion and led the company through its successful IPO.  Prior to Dick’s Sporting Goods, Hines served as the Vice President of Finance for Staples, Inc., where he was responsible for the early development of the accounting and finance organization and a range of financial duties as sales grew from $200 million to $2.0 billion during his five-year tenure.

Hines spent 12 years in public accounting, with the last eight years with the accounting firm Deloitte & Touche LLP.  Hines is also a director of GNC Holdings, Inc. and of The TJX Companies, Inc. He was a director of The Yankee Candle Company, Inc. from 2003 until the company was acquired by a private equity group in 2007. He received a bachelor’s degree in accountancy and a master’s degree in taxation from Bentley University.

“I am delighted to join the Dunkin’ Brands Board of Directors,” said Hines.  ”Dunkin’ Brands is one of the premier franchisors in the world with two of the world’s best-loved brands, and I look forward to working with the talented management team and contributing to the Board’s efforts to drive long-term shareholder value.”

With more than 16,000 points of distribution in 56 countries worldwide, Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc., is the world’s leading franchisor of quick service restaurants (QSR) serving hot and cold coffee and baked goods, as well as hardserve ice cream. At the end of 2010, Dunkin’ Brands’ nearly 100 percent franchised business model included 9,760 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants and 6,433 Baskin-Robbins restaurants, and the company had system-wide sales of approximately $7.7 billion. Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. is headquartered in Canton, Mass. The Company’s website is located at www.dunkinbrands.com.

Dunkin’ Brands Group Inc. may struggle to duplicate the loyalty of its northeastern customers as the doughnuts-and-coffee chain expands across the U.S.

Dunkin’ has “really not been proven west of the Mississippi, but it does have a cult-like following in the Northeast,” said Christopher O’Cull, a Nashville, Tennessee- based analyst at researcher SunTrust Robinson Humphrey. “The question is: can that be replicated?”

Based on expectations that Dunkin’ can take on the likes of Seattle-based Starbucks Corp. and Peet’s Coffee & Tea Inc. nationally, investors have driven up the chain’s shares 44 percent since last month’s initial public offering, compared with a 16 percent drop for the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index.

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Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s every day, all-day stop for coffee and baked goods, is seeking to expand its presence into San Antonio, Texas, with today’s announcement of a seminar on August 16th to discuss franchise opportunities brewing in the market.

Dunkin’ Donuts executives will be in town to host the exclusive event on August 16th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Maggiano’s Little Italy, to share the benefits of owning a Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant.  To register, please visit http://franchisingevents.dunkinbrands.com/ or call 781.737.3396.

Dunkin’ Donuts’ development throughout San Antonio is part of a steady and strategic growth strategy, which includes expanding in existing markets while entering new cities across the country to help drive the leading coffee and bakery chain’s growth.  The company recently signed a multi-unit store development agreement with existing franchisee R&J International Company for three new restaurants in San Antonio.  The first restaurant will open in 2012 and the remaining two units will be developed by 2015. Currently, R&J International operates a restaurant at the San Antonio International Airport.

To help fuel growth in San Antonio, special limited development incentives are available which include reduced royalty fees for three years and an extra $10,000 in local store marketing for stores that open on time*.

“Dunkin’ Donuts is looking for qualified candidates with foodservice, operations and real estate experience to help grow the brand in San Antonio,” said  Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. “By joining our team, franchisees become part of a nationally established brand with over 60 years of experience and 95% brand recognition, get the benefits of a multi-million dollar advertising fund in addition to world-class training and ongoing support, among many other benefits.”

In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers franchisees flexible design concepts including free-standing stores, end caps, in-line sites, kiosks and gas stations, as well as other retail environments. Dunkin’ Donuts has aligned its development strategy to support the growth opportunities and consumer needs of each individual market.  As a result, franchising opportunities range from single units to multi-store development agreements.

According to Benson, “Dunkin’ Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day.  Our recent and ongoing menu enhancements meet the needs of today’s on-the-go consumers, moving Dunkin’ Donuts beyond breakfast with high-quality food and beverage items available all day.”

Historically a doughnut and hot coffee chain, Dunkin’ Donuts has expanded its offering to include frozen and iced beverages, a full bakery assortment including bagels and muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and an all-day Oven-Toasted menu which includes flatbread sandwiches, hash browns and buttermilk biscuits. The platform marks the most significant change to Dunkin’ Donuts’ product lineup since the company launched espresso-based beverages in 2003.

For information on franchise opportunities or to attend an upcoming webinar, please visit www.dunkinfranchising.com.

Dunkin’ Brands Group, the parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, has reported results for the quarter ended June 25, 2011.  ”We delivered strong results for the quarter as a result of our continued focus on driving comparable store sales, expanding contiguously in the U.S., and accelerating international growth across both brands,” said Nigel Travis, Chief Executive Officer, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. and President, Dunkin’ Donuts. “Our emphasis on operational excellence and exciting product innovations, supported by great marketing, produced strong global system-wide sales and comparable store sales growth for Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., while our franchisees and licensees continued to drive new store growth, both domestically and internationally.”

Consolidated Key Highlights

Second quarter 2011 financial highlights included:

• Global system-wide sales increased approximately 6.9 percent over second quarter 2010.
• Consolidated U.S. comparable store sales increased 3.2 percent. Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. comparable store sales increased 3.8 percent while Baskin-Robbins U.S. comparable store sales decreased 2.8 percent.
• Dunkin’ Brands’ franchisees and licensees opened 140 net new Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins locations on a global basis during the quarter, and 234 during the first six months of 2011, increasing Dunkin’ Brands total points of distribution to 16,427 at the end of the second quarter.
• Revenues increased by more than 4 percent, to $157.0 million for the second quarter of 2011, compared to $150.4 million for the same period in 2010. The Company re-franchised 13 stores between the second quarter of 2010 and the second quarter of 2011. Excluding company-owned stores for both periods, revenues grew approximately 6 percent.
• Operating income was $61.8 million compared to $57.9 million for the second quarter of 2010, representing a 6.8 percent year-over-year increase. Operating income growth over the prior period was impacted by higher ice cream costs due to rising commodity prices.
• Net income was $17.2 million compared to $17.3 million for the second quarter of 2010.
• Adjusted net income* for the quarter was $24.7 million compared to $25.6 million for the second quarter of 2010.

The global system-wide sales growth for the second quarter was primarily attributable to Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. comparable store sales growth (which includes stores open 54 weeks or more), growth in Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins international sales, and global store development.

“Since the first of the year, we have significantly increased the strength of our balance sheet, and after the completion of our initial public offering, have reduced our annual interest expense by 50 percent to approximately $60 million through a combination of debt retirement, restructuring, and repricing. This financing activity resulted in non-recurring charges which impacted year-to-date net income,” said Chief Financial Officer Neil Moses. “The performance of the business in the second quarter demonstrates the strength of our business model and the integrity of our platform for future growth.”

“It’s an exciting time for Dunkin’ Brands as a new public company,” said Travis. “We are pleased with our second quarter results and look forward to sharing our longer term growth opportunities and financial goals in the near future.”

* Adjusted net income is a non-GAAP measure reflecting net income adjusted for amortization of intangible assets, impairment charges, and loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions, net of the tax impact of such adjustments.

With more than 16,000 points of distribution in 56 countries worldwide, Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN), is the world’s leading franchisor of quick service restaurants (QSR) serving hot and cold coffee and baked goods, as well as hardserve ice cream. At the end of 2010, Dunkin’ Brands’ nearly 100 percent franchised business model included 9,760 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants and 6,433 Baskin-Robbins restaurants, and the company had system-wide sales of approximately $7.7 billion. Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. is headquartered in Canton, Mass.

Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, announced that beginning this week participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in the United States will offer Dunkin’ Donuts K-Cup portion packs, making “America’s Favorite Coffee” available for use with the Keurig Single-Cup Brewing system for the very first time. Sold exclusively at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants, Dunkin’ K-Cup portion packs are offered in five popular flavors, including Original Blend, Dunkin’ Decaf, French Vanilla, Hazelnut and Dunkin’ Dark Roast. The suggested retail price for a 14-count box is $11.99.

As part of Dunkin’ Donuts’ nationwide launch of K-Cup portion packs, the company is celebrating with the “Dunkin’ Donuts’ $1K Giveaway,” in which beginning tomorrow, Aug. 4, through Aug. 12, Dunkin’ Donuts will surprise a total of 12 guests at restaurants throughout the United States with a check for $1,000, a Keurig Single-Cup Brewer and a year’s supply of Dunkin’ K-Cup portion packs. Please visit www.DunkinDonuts.com/promotions for official rules.

Additionally, this week Dunkin’ Donuts will surprise select DD Perks members, sending them a Keurig Single-Cup Brewer and Dunkin’ K-Cup portion packs. Dunkin’ Donuts’ popular DD Perks program provides members exclusive in-store and online offers, previews on new menu items, updates on new restaurant openings, localized offers and other special perks. To sign up for DD Perks visit www.DunkinDonuts.com/perks.

“This is an extremely exciting day for Dunkin’ Donuts, our franchisees and our guests who have been asking us to offer Dunkin’ K-Cup portion packs for their Keurig Single-Cup Brewing system,” said John Costello, Chief Global Marketing and Innovation Officer at Dunkin’ Brands. “We are thrilled to partner with Keurig to enable our guests to enjoy great-tasting Dunkin’ Donuts coffee at home, one cup at a time, and we look forward to continuing to find new ways to offer new choices to keep people running with Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, at home or on-the-go, any time of day.”

Dunkin’ Donuts first announced in February 2011 a promotion, manufacturing and distribution agreement with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters  to make Dunkin’ Donuts coffee available in single-serve K-Cup portion packs for use with Keurig Single-Cup brewers. Keurig’s Single-Cup brewers for in-home and office utilize patented, innovative brewing and single-cup technology to deliver a fresh-brewed, perfect cup of coffee, tea, hot cocoa or other specialty beverages every time at just the touch of a button.

 Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is taking actions to cut costs for the national restaurant chain. One step of this plan includes cutting 60 positions in both management and staff. Almost all of the employees that lost their jobs worked at the company’s headquarters. This will improve the efficiency of the administrative duties of the company.

Perkins & Marie Callender’s has filed their plan of reorganization as part of Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings. If the filing goes as planned the company will be exiting bankruptcy by the fall of this year. The bankruptcy deals with all of the 14% Senior Secured Notes and almost all of the 10%  Senior Secured Notes.

Bugaboo Creek Steak House, a small steakhouse chain with 12 locations located in the Eastern Corridor, has been purchased by Capitol BC Restaurants. The new ownership entails few changes for the restaurant chain but menu improvements and higher quality service are on the way. The chain will also be holding its annual “LobsterFest” until August.

Tilman J. Fertitta has announced the end of the standing acquisition offer to buy common stocks from McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants. The deal, which he first started at the beginning of this year, offered $9.25 in cash tender for each stock. He has dropped the purchase order to participate in the buyout process the company is currently undergoing.

Domino’s Pizza Vice President of multimedia marketing, Dennis Maloney, gave concrete evidence of how he helped boost the brand through social media marketing. His talk at the ANA Social Media Conference helped large and small business owners alike understand the importance of social networking. The chain combined the marketing with improvements in the pizza quality.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is the world’s second largest fried chicken fast food chain. The new restaurant location opening in Memphis, Tennessee on July 18^th will be the chain’s 2000^th location. The restaurant will celebrate being number 2000 by giving away 2000 pieces of original fried chicken to guests on grand opening day.

Burger King spends $300 million dollars a year on multimedia marketing, and it has shifted the bulk of this spending to Starcom. Mindshare was the company’s media agency of record for a few years, but the two companies have decided to terminate their agreement. Mindshare will manage existing campaigns for a few more months as Starcom transitions to the major agency.

Dunkin’ Donuts is targeting Arkansas as their next location for growth. Two new franchisees will develop a total of 11 locations in the state within the next few years. Seven of them will be located in Northwest Arkansas around Little Rock and Ft. Smith. The rest will open in Hot Springs and Benton.

Iowa will also see new Dunkin’ Donuts locations popping up in the next few years as well. A new agreement with Eastern Iowa Food Services will bring 12 locations to Cedar Rapids, Iowa by 2018. The chain is also seeking other franchisees for markets like Ottumwa, Des Moines and Sioux City.

Arkansas only has one Dickey’s Barbecue Pit currently in operation, so new franchisee Por Yang saw a great opportunity for success. Yang will open his restaurant next week in Siloam Springs. The only other location is in Lowell. The company has other opportunities within the state for motivated franchisees.

Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s every day, all-day stop for coffee and baked goods, announced today the signing of a multi-unit store development agreement with Eastern Iowa Food Service, Inc. for 12 restaurants in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  The first restaurant is slated to open in 2012 and the remainder by 2018.  

Eastern Iowa Food Service, Inc. is a subsidiary of Reif Oil Company, a fuel distributing company with retail stores in southeast Iowa.  Reif Oil Company was founded in 1978 by Clifford Reif, President and CEO who is still active in the business.  His daughter, Andrea Farley will be the Eastern Iowa Food Service Operations Head.

“We are excited to bring Dunkin’ Donuts’ back to Cedar Rapids and play an important role in the daily lives of people who live, work and visit here,” said Clifford Reif. “We have a passion and loyalty for the brand and look forward to the opening of our restaurants in the years to come.”

Franchise opportunities are still available in Iowa, specifically in Des Moines, Ottumwa and Sioux City.  To drive its expansion efforts, Dunkin’ Donuts has aligned its strategy to support the growth opportunities and consumer needs of individual markets.  As a result, the company continues to expand with single and multi-unit opportunities with no minimum unit requirements.  

“Dunkin’ Donuts is excited to expand its footprint into Cedar Rapids,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. “Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day. We’re confident the Reifs will cultivate lasting customer relationships in the Cedar Rapids area and become an integral part of their communities.”

Building a solid network of stores within a market enables Dunkin’ Donuts to invest in a distribution model that provides a consistent, high-quality product guests expect “in the way and on the way” of their daily routines.  In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers flexible concepts for any real estate format including free-standing restaurants, end caps, in-line sites, gas and convenience, travel plazas, universities, as well as other retail environments.

According to Benson, “Dunkin’ Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the, hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day.  Our recent and ongoing menu enhancements meet the needs of today’s on-the-go consumers, providing them a convenient place where they can get high-quality products any time of the day.”

Historically a doughnut and hot coffee chain, Dunkin’ Donuts has expanded its offering to include frozen and iced beverages, a full bakery assortment including bagels and muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and an all-day Oven-Toasted menu which includes flatbread sandwiches, hash browns and buttermilk biscuits. The platform marks the most significant change to Dunkin’ Donuts’ product lineup since the company launched espresso-based beverages in 2003.

For information on franchise opportunities or to attend an upcoming webinar, please visit www.dunkinfranchising.com.

Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s every day, all-day stop for coffee and baked goods, announced today the signing of a multi-unit store development agreement with Peter and Arjun Patel for two restaurants in Peachtree City, GA.  The first restaurant is slated to open this year and the second in 2013.  Peter and Arjun have been Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees for over five years and currently own and operate two restaurants in Augusta.

“We are excited to expand Dunkin’ Donuts’ presence in the Peachtree City market and play an important role in the daily lives of people who live, work and visit here,” said Peter Patel. “We have a strong passion and loyalty for the brand and look forward to the opening of our additional restaurants in the years to come.”

Franchise opportunities are still available in Oconee Lake, SE Atlanta Inside the perimeter (ITP), SW Atlanta ITP, Riverdale/Jonesboro/Griffin, Floyd/Polk/Chattoga, NW Central Atlanta ITP, SW Fulton, East Atlanta ITP, Stone Mountain, Jasper/Elljay, Northeast Cornelia-Cleveland and LaGrange as well as Macon and Columbus.  To drive its expansion efforts, Dunkin’ Donuts has aligned its strategy to support the growth opportunities and consumer needs of individual markets.  As a result, the company continues to expand with single and multi-unit opportunities with no minimum unit requirements.

“Dunkin’ Donuts is excited to expand its footprint in Peachtree City,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. “Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day. We’re confident The Patels will cultivate lasting customer relationships in the Atlanta area and become an integral part of their respective communities.”

Building a solid network of stores within a market enables Dunkin’ Donuts to invest in a distribution model that provides a consistent, high-quality product guests expect “in the way and on the way” of their daily routines.  In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers flexible concepts for any real estate format including free-standing restaurants, end caps, in-line sites, gas and convenience, travel plazas, universities, as well as other retail environments.

According to Benson, “Dunkin’ Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the, hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day.  Our recent and ongoing menu enhancements meet the needs of today’s on-the-go consumers, providing them a convenient place where they can get high-quality products any time of the day.”  

Historically a doughnut and hot coffee chain, Dunkin’ Donuts has expanded its offering to include frozen and iced beverages, a full bakery assortment including bagels and muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and an all-day Oven-Toasted menu which includes flatbread sandwiches, hash browns and buttermilk biscuits. The platform marks the most significant change to Dunkin’ Donuts’ product lineup since the company launched espresso-based beverages in 2003.

For information on franchise opportunities or to attend an upcoming webinar, please visit www.dunkinfranchising.com.

Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s every day, all-day stop for coffee and baked goods, announced today it has signed agreements with three franchisees to develop 12 new restaurants throughout Tampa over the next several years.  

Locations targeted for development include the following:

• Five units are to be developed in Sarasota and Charlotte County by existing Dunkin’ Donuts franchisee David McNulty.  The first restaurant is slated to open in 2012 with the remaining four to open by 2016.  
• Velocity Brands plan to open four restaurants in Manatee County over the next several years.  The first location is scheduled to open in 2012 and the remaining locations are scheduled to open by 2015.
• Herb Serpa plans to open three restaurants in the South Pinellas region by 2014.  The first will open next year.  

“The Sunshine State is a priority growth market for Dunkin’ Donuts in 2011, and we’re excited to expand our footprint in Tampa,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc.  ”Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day. We’re confident these franchisees will cultivate lasting customer relationships in the Tampa area and become an integral part of their respective communities.”

Dunkin’ Donuts offers flexible concepts for any real estate format including free-standing restaurants, end caps, in-line sites, gas and convenience, travel plazas, universities, as well as other retail environments.

According to Benson, “Dunkin’ Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the hard-working, value-driven people of this country running every day.  Our recent and ongoing menu enhancements meet the needs of today’s on-the-go consumers, providing them a convenient place where they can get high-quality products any time of the day.”  

Historically a doughnut and hot coffee chain, Dunkin’ Donuts has expanded its offering to include frozen and iced beverages, a full bakery assortment including bagels and muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and an all-day Oven-Toasted menu which includes flatbread sandwiches, hash browns and buttermilk biscuits. The platform marks the most significant change to Dunkin’ Donuts’ product lineup since the company launched espresso-based beverages in 2003.

In Marvel Studios’ Captain America: The First Avenger, arriving in movie theaters on July 22, action hero Captain America is created as part of the secret “Super-Soldiers” project.  Inspired by the heroic Super-Soldiers in the movie, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins want you to help identify and honor America’s real Super-Soldiers, the unsung heroes whose service has had a significant impact in local communities throughout our country.  Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, with support from the USO (United Service Organizations), today launched “America’s Super-Soldiers,” a co-branded online contest where people can win prizes by nominating veterans or active U.S. servicepersons who are making a difference where they live or serve.

Beginning today through July 15, 2011, fans can visit Dunkin’ Donuts’ or Baskin-Robbins’ official Facebook pages to nominate a veteran or active serviceperson, answering short questions about why their Super-Soldier is making a difference in their hometown and/or the communities in which they serve. The grand prize winning Super-Soldier, as selected by Dunkin’ Donuts, Baskin-Robbins and a representative from the USO, will win a cash prize of $5,000, a new high-definition television, a new Blu-Ray DVD player and a selection of DVD movies in which Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins products are featured.  And as a thank you, the nominator of the grand prize winner will also win a $1,000 cash prize and a $100 Dunkin’ Donuts Card. Please visit http://apps.facebook.com/supersoldiers/contests/130457/rules?ogn=facebook for official rules.

Dunkin’ Donuts has a long history of honoring America’s service men and women, and has donated more than 175,000 pounds of coffee to troops deployed overseas since May 2003.  The company holds a monthly drawing to randomly select at least 50 United States military members to receive one case of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee.  During the holiday season, Dunkin’ Brands’ corporate employees also send additional pounds of coffee to the troops.

“Dunkin’ Brands is thrilled to partner with Marvel Studios to bring the excitement of Captain America: The First Avenger to our guests, and we are particularly proud that our America’s Super-Soldiers contest provides an opportunity to continue our tradition of recognizing both U.S. veterans and active servicemen and women who give selflessly,” said John Costello, Chief Global Marketing and Innovation Officer at Dunkin’ Brands. “We hope everyone will help us recognize these real-life heroes whose commitment to our local communities makes such a difference to so many people,” he said.

“America’s Super-Soldiers” is part of a new partnership between Dunkin’ Brands and Marvel Studios to bring the excitement of Captain America: The First Avenger to Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins restaurants nationwide. Leading up to the launch of this summer’s blockbuster, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins have introduced special new Captain America-themed menu items. At Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, guests can enjoy the new Captain America Coolatta drink, a cherry-flavored Coolatta frozen beverage, available in a special limited-edition collectible First Avenger Tri-Cup, an innovative three-chamber cup featuring images of Captain America that allows guests to enjoy three different Coolatta flavors (8 oz. each) within the same cup.  Dunkin’ Donuts is also serving  the brand’s first-ever star-shaped donut, the Captain America Donut, filled with jelly, frosted with vanilla icing, and topped with patriotic red, white and blue sprinkles, as well as the Stars & Stripes Donut, frosted with red icing and topped with patriotic red, white and blue sprinkles.

Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, is featuring an assortment of ice cream refreshments including July Flavor of the Month Super-Soldier Swirl, vanilla ice cream swirled with a combo of blue chocolate chips and a cherry flavored ribbon. Guests can also enjoy the Hydra Force Sundae, Chocolate Mousse Royale ice cream that is chock full of brownies, hot fudge, and whipped cream topped off with chocolate sprinkles and a cherry, or the Super-Soldier Sundae, Super-Soldier Swirl ice cream topped with moist white cake, and a rich strawberry topping (add whipped cream, a cherry, and star-spangled sprinkles for a flavorful patriotic salute).  Lastly, the Captain America Ice Cream Cake, inspired by Captain America’s signature shield, is classic sheet cake customized with your favorite ice cream and cake flavors along with a collectable Captain America Cake Topper.

Restaurants around the country are embracing the popularity of salads to make 2011 the Summer of Salads. As customers have become more health conscious and interested in alternatives to burgers or pizza, many fast food and casual restaurants alike are adding new menu items. Wendy’s, McDonald’s and others have added new limited time salads to their summer menus.

The price of coffee is about to shoot up as the cost of growing the beans skyrockets. Large distributors like J.M. Smucker, responsible for brands like Dunkin’ Donuts and Folgers, announced it will raise prices by 11%. Starbucks is raising the cost for beans and ground coffee by 17%. The commodities price of a pound of unroasted coffee has gone up nearly 92% over the last year.

Red Robin wasn’t looking very well to investors about a year ago, but after nine months with a new CEO confidence is once again building in the company. Profits have risen and costs sunk after Steve Carley took the helm. The chain is now much fitter and leaner after three consecutive years of falling profits and falling stock value.

Lettuce Entertain You is turning 40 this week, and the 80 American locations plan to mark the celebration in style. Rich Melman, the CEO of the chain, received the James Beard Award a month ago as well. Lettuce Entertain You started as a restaurant known as RJ Grunts in Chicago, which is still open. Melman has also opened scores of popular restaurants like Maggiano’s and Shaw’s Crab House.

Some of the biggest names in the restaurant industry are integrating new technology to speed up the serving process and cut down on errors. This includes texting systems to notify customers when their table is ready. Customers can’t leave with an expensive restaurant pager and they’re no longer confined to the lobby or bar of the restaurant as they wait.

Pizza Inn already has the fresh pizza concept down, but now they are expanding into the fast casual market. The Pie Five Pizza Co. brand launched recently in Fort Worth, Texas. The restaurant combines fresh baked, custom topping pizzas that are ready in under 5 minutes. The prototype is a small 60 seat location with a shiny industrial styled interior.

Jon Basso’s Heart Attack Grill may be in need of some CPR.  The controversial burger concept is closing temporarily after clashes with the city over the exterior paint color, but he says that it will reopen shortly. He is considering moving the restaurant, which has generated plenty of buzz for its wait staff dressed as nurses and purposely unhealthy menu, to a more welcoming city. The Grill is painted white, but it is located in a nearly vacant tan shopping center.

Rocky Aoki founded the Benihana chain, but his widow is now suing the company for allegedly making false statements and defamation. This new development comes in reaction to the suit filed against her last month by the current Board of Directors of Benihana. That suit claimed that the widow Keiko Aoki was purposely trying to lower the stock value by making claims that she deserved to run the company.

Fazoli’s offers you an inexpensive way to explore Italy’s cuisine with their new Tour of Taste promotion. Five new entrees have been added to help guests explore the unique tastes of Naples, Sicily, Rome, Tuscany and Campania. Guests who order a large drink can win instant prizes, while anyone who orders a Tour of Taste entree can enter a sweepstakes to win a trip to Italy.

Frisch’s has made their 202^nd consecutive quarterly dividend repayment. The latest repayment comes in the form of $.15. The company continues to report a profit, as it has since it first sold stock in 1960. It has also paid cash back to its shareholders and investors every single quarter since going public. The company operates the Big Boy brand and owns some Golden Corral restaurants.

Wingstop is one of America’s most popular hot wing chains, with over seven consecutive years of same store sales growth. They’ve been named one of the best franchise deals in the country as well by the  quick service industry magazine QSR. 95% of the chain’s nearly 500 locations in America and Mexico are franchise owned.

The CEO of the fresh salad chain Saladworks, John Scardapane, was honored recently by SmartCEO magazine. He was handed the “Chief Executive Officer of the Year Award” at the Philadelphia SmartCEO Business Awards event on May 11^th. The magazine also chose the Saladworks chain as one of the companies with great growth potential over the next 10 years.

Starbucks Coffee Company, the US based corporate arm of the popular brand, has now assumed 100 percent ownership of nearly half of the Chinese based Starbucks locations. Maxim’s Caterers was the partner in charge of locations in provinces like Sichuan and Shaanxi but they relinquished those areas to the main corporation. In exchange Maxim’s Caterers received complete control over the Hong Kong locations.

Restaurants Unlimited, an operator of a variety of concept restaurants, has announced the appointment of a new CEO. Chris Harter is joining the company after his time as the President of Levy Restaurants, another large multi-concept company. He helped develop outstanding locations like the Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe and Bistro 110.

The Mazzio’s chain offers quality pizza and other Italian foods in a fast casual environment, and the company has signed a new franchising agreement to bring the brand to Virginia. This would be the first East Coast locations for the 50 year old chain. The chain is largely based in the Midwest, with 170 currently operating restaurants.

Two new Grandy’s locations are coming to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. A new franchise contract between the Grandy’s company and Sam Poonawala will create the two convenience store locations by the end of this year. The brand combines other convenience store fixtures with home cooked Southern foods and sweet tea.

Dunkin’ Donuts will be adding four new locations to the Montgomery, Alabama area. The company signed a franchise agreement with Harrison Kwan to develop stores this Southern town that the chain hasn’t reached yet. The first location will open during 2012, and the next three will be built by 2016. Kwan now owns exclusive rights to the brand within the Montgomery area due to the agreement as well.

La Carafe Restaurant and Wine Bar celebrated its opening in the Hell’s Kitchen area recently. The restaurant is small, featuring only 30 tables, and offers a homey interior with rustic Italian décor. The menu combines French Mediterranean dishes constructed by the chef and owner Al Rineh with a full wine list.

Irving will be the home of the newest Freebirds World Burrito location. The location will celebrate its grand opening on June 8^th by giving the first 25 customers free burritos for a year. The Freebirds brand combines tastes and toppings from around the world in their healthy and tasty burritos, wraps, salads and sandwiches.

North Dallas is getting a new Dickey’s Barbecue Pit location that fits the Texas barbecue obsession very well. Guy New will be developing this location, impressed by the restaurant when he first visited other Texas locations of the chain. Dickey’s is currently engaged in rapid expansion of their brand, and this new location is just one of dozens currently working towards opening.

The price of your morning buzz is about to get even higher.

Hit with wildly increasing costs for beans from growers, coffee roasters are charging more to supermarkets and other retailers — and those folks are passing the higher prices on to consumers.

J.M. Smucker Co., which distributes the Folgers and Dunkin’ Donuts coffee sold at stores, said last week it was hiking prices for a pound by 11% — the company’s fourth and biggest increase in a year. A few days later, Starbucks — which had already raised prices on some coffee drinks in the fall — said it would raise prices for bags of coffee beans sold at its cafes by 17%.

Continue reading . . .

Red Robin is serving a new Five Alarm Spicy Chicken Sandwich for a limited time until July 24.  A new Summer Strawberry Salad has also been added to the menu for a limited time as well. The Five Alarm sandwich features a grilled chicken breast topped with pepper jack cheese, grilled jalapenos and salsa. The salad features a strawberry vinaigrette dressing, toasted almonds and feta cheese.

Church’s is known for their fried chicken, but they are releasing a new Southern Style Chicken Sandwich to complete their menu. The freshly fried chicken breast weighs one fourth of a pound making this one of the largest fried chicken sandwiches available from a national fast food chain. To promote the new release, the company also developed the Church’s Southern Style Chicken Sandwich Launcher Game.

Burger King is dropping its current advertising campaign, which is targeted at young male consumers who practically live off fast food, to focus on healthier food items to attract female customers. The world’s second-largest burger chain will take its cue from McDonald’s recent menu changes. Lower quality value menu items will be dropped in favor of smoothies, oatmeal, and higher quality burgers.

Hot chocolate lovers no longer have to wait until the temperatures drop again to enjoy their favorite beverage. Dunkin’ Donuts is adding a new Frozen Hot Chocolate to their popular beverage lineup just in time for the hottest days of summer. The chain serves other frozen beverage options as part of their Coolatta line.

The National Restaurant Association has released their Restaurant Performance Index report for April, and it shows the optimistic outlook of owners and operators within the industry. The index rating dropped a minute amount since March. Industry experts expect the rising consumer confidence due to a slowly improving economy to bolster restaurant sales around the country.

Red Robin, known for their gourmet burgers, is experimenting with a smaller restaurant prototype. Their current fast casual dining restaurants take over 5000 feet, and the smaller prototype varies between 2000 and 4000 feet. If it works, the smaller restaurant could help Red Robin reach areas that do not have space for a full sized restaurant.

The newest Johnny Rockets location, located in Westchester New York, marks the 17^th location in the New York State alone for this popular hamburger chain. The menu features a combination of the chains classic items, such as hamburgers and milkshakes, but also adds regional treats like black bean burgers and special salads. The chain chose to add the location in Westchester due to a lack of family-friendly restaurants.

UFood Restaurant Group, the company that operates the UFood Grill chain, has announced the signing of a new agreement to develop the brand in the Middle East. World Franchise Associates is the London-based firm that plans to bring the brand into countries like Saudi Arabia. The UFood Grill serves healthy food options including rice bowls, low-fat burgers and wraps.

The Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill location in South Coast Plaza has named a new General Manager. Jeffrey Grasso will be taking over the post for Travis Miller as he leaves to manage an Arizona location of the chain. Grasso has a long history of working in the restaurant industry, including his start at the Marie Callender’s original location.

Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s every day, all-day stop for coffee and baked goods, announced today the signing of a multi-unit store development agreement with Harrison Kwan for four new restaurants in Montgomery, Alabama  The first restaurant will open in 2012 and the remaining three units will be developed by 2016.  

“I am excited to expand Dunkin’ Donuts’ presence in Montgomery and contribute to the daily lives of people who live, work and visit here,” said Harrison Kwan. “I have an affinity and loyalty for the brand and look forward to the opening of my restaurants in the years to come.”

This agreement sells out Montgomery and surrounding counties for future franchise sales.  To drive its expansion efforts, the company has aligned its strategy to support the growth opportunities and consumer needs of individual markets.  As a result, Dunkin’ Donuts continues to expand with single and multi-unit opportunities with no minimum unit requirements.  

“Dunkin’ Donuts is excited to expand its footprint in Montgomery with Harrison Kwan,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. “Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day. We’re confident Harrison will become an integral part of the Montgomery community.”

Building a solid network of stores within a market enables Dunkin’ Donuts to invest in a distribution model that provides a consistent, high-quality product guests expect “in the way and on the way” of their daily routines.  In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers flexible concepts for any real estate format including free-standing restaurants, end caps, in-line sites, gas and convenience, travel plazas, universities, as well as other retail environments.

According to Benson, “Dunkin’ Donuts is proud to energize Americans and keep the hard-working, value-driven people of Montgomery running every day.  Our recent and ongoing menu enhancements meet the needs of today’s on-the-go consumers, moving Dunkin’ Donuts beyond breakfast with high-quality food and beverage items available all day.”

Historically a doughnut and hot coffee chain, Dunkin’ Donuts has expanded its offering to include frozen and iced beverages, a full bakery assortment including bagels and muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and an all-day Oven-Toasted menu which includes flatbread sandwiches, hash browns and buttermilk biscuits. The platform marks the most significant change to Dunkin’ Donuts’ product lineup since the company launched espresso-based beverages in 2003.

For information on franchise opportunities or to attend an upcoming webinar, please visit www.dunkinfranchising.com.