Dunkin's Canadian comeback to start in Toronto and Montreal

American coffee and doughnut chain Dunkin' is officially preparing for a major return to Canada after leaving the country several years ago. The company’s comeback will begin in Toronto and Montreal, where the first new restaurants are expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027. The expansion is part of a new partnership between Montreal-based restaurant company Foodtastic and Inspire Brands, the parent company of Dunkin’.

According to reports, Foodtastic has signed an exclusive agreement giving the company rights to develop and operate Dunkin’ locations across Canada through both company-owned and franchised restaurants. The companies plan to open hundreds of locations nationwide over the coming years as part of a long-term expansion strategy.

Foodtastic founder and chief executive Peter Mammas said the decision to bring Dunkin’ back to Canada came after he became impressed with the brand’s drinks and breakfast products during visits to the United States. He explained that the company believes there is strong demand in Canada for more beverage-focused coffee chains, especially among younger customers looking for cold drinks, refreshers, espresso beverages, and quick breakfast options.

The first phase of the Canadian expansion will focus mainly on the Greater Toronto Area and Montreal. Reports said the company is already searching for high-traffic locations, including drive-thru sites, shopping centres, universities, airports, and busy downtown areas. After establishing stores in those cities, the brand plans to expand into Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Atlantic Canada.

The returning menu is expected to include Dunkin’s popular iced coffees, hot coffee, espresso drinks, teas, doughnuts, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, and snack items. The company also plans to launch its full mobile app and rewards program in Canada from the beginning, allowing customers to place mobile orders and collect loyalty points.

Dunkin’ was once a major player in Canada’s coffee market and operated hundreds of stores across the country, especially in Quebec. However, the company gradually lost market share because of strong competition from Tim Hortons and other coffee chains. Most Dunkin’ locations closed during the early 2000s, and the brand officially exited Canada in 2018 after its final remaining stores shut down.

Industry experts believe the Canadian coffee market has changed significantly since Dunkin’ left the country. Demand for cold beverages, specialty drinks, mobile ordering, and quick breakfast foods has grown strongly in recent years. Dunkin’ is expected to compete directly with Tim Hortons, McDonald’s McCafé, and Starbucks as the company tries to rebuild its presence in the Canadian market.

Foodtastic currently operates more than 1,200 restaurant locations under several brands across Canada, including Second Cup, Freshii, Pita Pit, and Quesada. The company already works with Inspire Brands through the Canadian expansion of Jimmy John’s restaurants. Officials said more details about Dunkin’s first Canadian stores, franchise opportunities, and opening dates are expected to be announced in the coming months.