California : Dunkin' Donuts expanding

A representative from Dunkin’s Donuts announced Tuesday that the clients are preparing to launch branches in California before the year ends, Reuters reported.

This will mark the very first time the baked goods and coffee shops can look in the state following a 12-year-long absence. Dunkin’s Donuts, that was previously managed with a different corporation, left California in 2002 after it suffered major sales loss.

The new locations are members of the company’s previously announced plans to expand into the state by 2019. Dunkin’ Donuts said it has already signed nearly 200 agreements to open stores in California. It expects to have a lot more than 1,000 restaurants within the state later on. The new locations will be operated by franchisees.

Dunkin’ Donuts, that is of Canton, Massachusetts-based Dunkin’ Brands Group Inc., has about 11,000 restaurants around the world. In the U.S., the majority of its stores have been in the New england and Midwest. Dunkin’ Brands also owns the frozen treats chain Baskin Robbins.

The company already includes a small presence in California. It opened three small sites within the state, including one in expensive hotels, a military base and something in a travel rest stop.