Dunkin’ Donuts is one of the largest coffee and donut chains in America.
Here are 14 surprising and weird facts about Dunkin’ Donuts that we bet you had no idea about!
1. It’s Original Name Was Open Kettle…
Dunkin’ Donuts wasn’t always Dunkin’.
When it opened in 1948, it was called “Open Kettle.”
The name changed in 1950 to reflect the popular practice of dunking donuts into coffee.
Imagine ordering an “Open Kettle” coffee today!
2. First Store Still in Operation
The first Dunkin’ store in Quincy, Massachusetts, is still in operation, serving up nostalgia alongside donuts.
This iconic location has been restored to its 1950s glory, offering a sweet trip down memory lane for visitors.
3. MUNCHKINS® Donut Hole Treats
MUNCHKINS®, Dunkin’s famous donut holes, hit the scene in 1973.
They were invented to use up the leftover dough from donut centers.
Sometimes the leftovers really do steal the show!
4. Different Name In Spain
In Spain, you won’t find Dunkin’ Donuts. There, it’s known as Dunkin’ Coffee due to a trademark issue with the word “Donuts.” So, if you’re in Barcelona, look for Dunkin’ Coffee for your fix.
5. Billions of Cups of Coffee Sold
Dunkin’ serves around 2 billion cups of coffee worldwide each year—that’s about 60 cups every second!
Clearly, Dunkin’ is the fuel for mornings everywhere.
6. Special Donuts for Each Country
Dunkin’ crafts special donuts tailored to local tastes in each country.
In Singapore, you might find wasabi cheese donuts, while China offers dried pork and seaweed donuts.
It’s a tasty way to explore global flavors!
7. Royal Wedding Donuts
For the royal weddings in 2011 and 2018, Dunkin’ created special Royal Love Donuts.
These limited edition treats celebrated the nuptials of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. A royal delight!
8. Coffee Quality Management
Dunkin’ has coffee experts who taste an average of 200 cups of coffee a day to ensure top quality. Now that’s a dream job for coffee lovers!
9. Dunkin’ Partnered with Saucony
In 2018, Dunkin’ partnered with Saucony to create limited-edition running shoes.
The Saucony X Dunkin’ Kinvara 9 shoes were designed for marathon season, promoting the idea of “running on Dunkin’.”
Stylish and tasty.
10. Dunkin’s Rival: Mister Donut
Dunkin’ Donuts’ founder’s brother-in-law, Harry Winokur, created a rival donut company called Mister Donut.
Mister Donut became the largest donut chain in Japan and still operates there today.
Later on, Dunkin’ acquired Mister Donut.
11. The Munchkin Phenomenon
Munchkins, the beloved bite-sized donut holes, were introduced in the 1970s and have been a fan favorite ever since.
Sometimes, the smallest treats bring the biggest joy!
12. DD Perks Loyalty Program
Dunkin’ Donuts’ loyalty program, DD Perks, offers exclusive rewards and discounts to its members.
With every dollar spent, members earn points that can be redeemed for free beverages and other perks. It’s like getting paid to drink coffee!
13. Dunkin’ Was Briefly British and French-Owned
In 1989, Dunkin’ Donuts was owned by British food conglomerate Allied-Lyons and later by French-based Pernod Ricard.
The company was sold to a consortium of U.S. private equity firms in 2005, bringing it back to its American roots.
A truly international journey!
14. Dunkin’ Sells More Coffee Than Donuts
Despite being known for its donuts, Dunkin’ generates about 60% of its revenue from coffee sales.
This shift highlights the brand’s strong focus on coffee, which has become a major part of its identity.
It’s a coffee shop with a donut problem—or is it the other way around?
Dunkin’ isn’t just about delicious donuts and coffee; it’s a brand full of surprises and quirky facts.
Share these fun tidbits with your friends and see who’s the biggest Dunkin’ fan!