Franchise Owner Rob Branca Helps to Promote New Store Opening
The newly constructed Dunkin’ Donuts on the Circle, replacing the Wally Waffle building, was officially open for business June 10 at 5 a.m.
“People are pleased we eliminated a blighted structure with a brand new commercial building,” said Director of Economic Development Pat Carano. “I believe the addition of Dunkin’ Donuts on the Circle will make surrounding parcels more attractive for private investment.”
Part-owner and ALN Donuts President Ken Blum, who worked to build the business through extensive Heritage Commission meetings, said he is pleased with the outcome of the building and its location at 196 Tallmadge Circle.
“We’re happy to be in Tallmadge,” he said. “Everyone is friendly and welcoming and the community seems to be happy with us.”
Rob Branca, part-owner with Blum, said the location is ideal because of the 43,000 cars that pass through the Circle daily.
“We had a great opening morning,” Branca said. “It’s a good location for on-the-go people.”
Blum, Branca and another part-owner, Matt Doyle, own five other franchised Dunkin’ Donuts stores in Cuyahoga Falls, Brookpark, Parma, Brunswick and Medina.
Tallmadge’s 2,000 square-foot building was designed by James Douglas Evans Architect Inc. and was finished in about six months.
A second connected building is included into the Dunkin’ Donuts building plan but does not yet have a tenant, said Blum.
The business employs 25 local crew members and can seat up to 26 people inside.
Another grand opening is planned for July 25 where raffle tickets will be sold with the entirety of profits benefiting Akron Children’s Hospital. Also, a fundraiser is planned for the Akron-Canton Regional Food bank where customers can bring in a can of food and receive a free T-shirt.
