Over the past week or two, there have been a number of Dunkin’ Donuts noteworthy announcements. First, on the environmental-friendly side of the ledger, Dunkin Brands announced that it will eliminate artificial food dyes and coloring from most Dunkin’ and Baskin products in US markets by the end of 2018. The company admitted that it will take longer for Baskin to find replacements for decorative elements on its ice cream cakes. In addition, the company announced an expansion of its ongoing partnership with Keurig. The new focus will expand Dunkin’ coffee pods for workplace and in-room hospitality uses. These announcements come against an ongoing backdrop of rumors circulating that Dunkin’ itself could be up for sale, with possible suitors including YUM Brands and the JAB Holding Company, owner of Keurig, Caribou Coffee, Peet’s and others. The Brand has reported nothing and DDIFO continues to watch and monitor these reports. Also, Dunkin’ presented at an investor conference this week, but did not discuss any sales trends. Rather, Nigel Travis presented an overview of the brand’s research over the last 2 years and advised that the company has refocused on the quick and go coffee identity. The focus continues to streamline both food and beverage operations, decrease both consumer confusion and crew complexity, and make for marketing simplicity. He also noted that such streamlining will contribute to lower crew turnover and lessen food waste. In response to a specific question, Nigel responded that he did not think the system should have to face lower margins as the positioning continues, and that they would “test as they go”.