As Dunkin’ continues to navigate the challenges of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, the health and safety of guests, restaurant employees, and communities served remains its top priority, the company said. As circumstances evolve, you may notice your experience at restaurants looks a little different. That’s because Dunkin’ and its franchisees are taking enhanced preventative measures at Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide, in accordance with the expert guidance from public health officials, to help protect you and restaurant employees.
Read below for an overview of the latest preventative measures Dunkin’ has implemented as a brand:
Eliminating all dine-in options: Dunkin’ is currently limiting service to drive-thru, carry-out, delivery, and curbside pick-up, at select locations. All restaurants have closed their dining rooms and outdoor patios to prevent the congregation of customers.
Encouraging mobile ordering and delivery: Dunkin’ encourages guests to order ahead with the Dunkin’ App or order Dunkin’ for delivery with Grubhub or other delivery partners, whenever possible, to limit person-to-person contact.
Establishing health protocols for restaurant employees: Dunkin’ has implemented temporary brand standards requiring restaurant employees to wear single-use gloves, regardless of the task, and non-medical masks, with instructions on proper use and care. To encourage social distancing amongst restaurant employees, Dunkin’ continues to emphasize the importance of “work-circles” and maintaining a 6-foot distance. Franchisees have marked their floors with painter’s tape in 6-foot increments.
Helping to safeguard restaurant employee and guest interactions: Dunkin’ implemented a temporary brand standard requiring installation of plexiglass as a physical barrier between restaurant employees and guests at the front counter of all restaurants open for carry-out. It also recommends that restaurant employees use trays to hand orders to guests at the drive-thru window.
Extra cleaning precautions: Beyond already stringent standards, franchisees have increased the frequency of handwashing and cleaning procedures, including disinfecting high-touch surfaces and high-traffic areas at all stores. Some locations are reducing their hours of operation to allow extra time for deep cleaning and sanitation processes in the evening. Dunkin’ has also mandated that all franchisees and their employees retake online food safety and hygiene training courses.
Protecting guests in-store: Dunkin’ temporarily suspended its refillable travel mug program and eliminated stir-sticks from the condiment stations. Franchisees have placed markings on store floors, spaced 6 feet apart, where guests can maintain social distancing while standing in line waiting for carry-out.
