Dunkin’ to keep trading in the Netherlands – but future in Belgium uncertain

Most of Dunkin’s 50 stores in the Netherlands will remain open following the restructuring | Photo credit: Julian

Dunkin Netherlands & Belgium is back under the control of former Managing Director Nabil Besali after the franchise group declared bankruptcy in October 2024. 

In a press statement, the group’s legal representative Derk van Geel said that most of Dunkin’s 50 stores in the Netherlands will remain open following the restructuring, but said the chain’s workforce will be reduced from approximately 400 staff to 250. However, Dunkin’s 18 stores in Belgium were not mentioned in details of the restructure, casting doubt over the future of the US chain in the market.

“We are happy and proud to have Dunkin’ back under our leadership and to revitalise the brand. With our team, we look forward to welcoming customers again and leading the company into a stronger future,” Besali said. 

Dunkin’ launched in the Netherlands in 1997 and opened five stores in the country before exiting the market in 2000 after failing to raise sufficient investment. Besali brought the coffee chain back to the Netherlands in 2017 and served as CEO of Dunkin’ Netherlands & Belgium until October 2023, when he sold a majority stake in the franchise to the Van der Valk hospitality group.    

World Coffee Portal research shows the total Dutch branded coffee shop market comprises 675 outlets, led by US coffee chain Starbucks with 101 stores. Project Café Europe 2024 forecasts the market will reach 730 outlets in 2029.