Dunkin’ Donuts inked a multiunit store development agreement with new franchisees Brian and Sharon Weidendorf to develop seven restaurants in Duluth, Minnesota, and the surrounding areas. The first restaurant is planned to open in spring 2015.
Led by Brian and his wife Sharon, this new franchise group holds more than 30 years of experience in the real estate development industry. Joining this team is Pat Messina, a restaurant industry veteran who will manage and oversee the daily operations for each restaurant.
“We are excited to expand the brand’s presence in Minnesota and play an important role in the daily lives of people who live, work, and visit here,” says Brian Weidendorf. “We have a passion and loyalty for the brand and look forward to opening our restaurants in the years to come.”
Last month, Dunkin’ Donuts announced the grand opening of a new restaurant in Rochester, Minnesota, at the Kahler Grand Hotel. In addition to this location, existing franchise group Rochester Retail Services plans to develop five freestanding Dunkin' Donuts restaurants throughout the Rochester market over the next several years.
Franchise opportunities still remain available throughout Minnesota in Minneapolis and Mankato. To help fuel growth in these markets, special development incentives are available, which include reduced royalty fees for three years and up to $10,000 in local store marketing for stores that meet certain goals.
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.
“Our secret to continued growth includes passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day,” says Grant Benson, CFE and vice president of global franchising and business development for Dunkin’ Brands. “We are excited to welcome Brian, Sharon, and Pat to the Minnesota market, and believe they will cultivate lasting customer relationships and become an integral part of the Duluth communities they serve.”
