The Business Courier of Cincinnati reports that Dunkin’ Donuts has signed an agreement to open five locations in Cincinnati as part of its overall growth strategy locally and nationally.
The deal, with Gilligan Oil Co., will involve store openings from 2010 to 2012. Gilligan, founded in 1993, operates TCBY, Subway and Popeyes Chicken and Biscuits franchises, as well as Gills Car Washes. In addition, it is the regional franchise developer for the Exxon/Mobile “On the Run” convenience store franchise. Southwest Ohio’s largest distributor of Shell-branded gasoline, Gilligan also operates Sunoco and Exxon gas stations.
The agreement marks a strategic plan by Dunkin’ Donuts to expand in existing markets while entering new cities. The coffee-and-bakery chain is looking for franchisees to develop restaurants in Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo and Columbus. Opportunities also exist throughout Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio and Michigan and other states.
