The Massachusetts-based operator has opened a new or remodelled NextGen outlet every six hours over the last nine months following a major re-brand and modernisation programme first announced in 2018
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Dunkin’s NextGen store model features digital order kiosks and dedicated pick-up areas | Photo credit: Dunkin’
US coffee chain Dunkin’ has reached a major milestone in delivering its coffee-first strategy with the opening of the 4,000th NextGen store in the US, which serve premium coffee and provide greater speed-of-service.
Launched in January 2018, Dunkin’s NextGen store model also feature more energy efficient outlet designs, digital order kiosks, and dedicated mobile order pick-up areas for in-store and drive-thru purchases.
Alongside a more seamless ordering process, Dunkin’s NextGen programme came shortly before a successful coffee-focused rebrand, which saw the coffee chain drop ‘Donuts’ from its branding in January 2019 and upgrade its coffee menu with a new espresso range and cold brew, iced coffee and premium iced tea products.
In 2018, Dunkin’ said the rebrand would enable it to compete more effectively with US branded coffee chain market leader Starbucks and fast-food giant McDonald’s, which revamped its McCafé coffee offer in 2017.
Dunkin’ is now accelerating the rollout of its store renewal programme and has opened a new or remodelled NextGen outlet in the US every six hours since reaching 3,000 NextGen stores in October 2023, according to a press release.
“NextGen is propelling the brand forward and continuing to exceed growth targets. It’s also creating an enhanced Dunkin’ experience that is enjoyed by both our guests and team members,” said Scott Murphy, Chief Brand Officer at Dunkin’s parent company Inspire Brands.
Founded in Massachusetts in 1950, Dunkin’ is the second largest branded coffee chain in the US with more than 9,400 stores, behind Seattle-based Starbucks which has 16,600 sites.
While World Coffee Portal research indicates Dunkin’ has been the second most popular coffee operator among US consumers since 2019 after Starbucks, the chain has faced growing competition from a buoyant drive-thru coffee market, which includes fast-growing operators Dutch Bros and Scooter’s Coffee.