Inspire Brands acquires Dunkin’ Donuts owner for $11.3bn

Restaurant group Inspire Brands has agreed to acquire Dunkin’ Brands, the parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, in a deal worth approximately $11.3 billion.

The all-cash merger agreement sees Inspire Brands acquire Dunkin’ Brands for a price of $106.50 per share, and Inspire will assume all of Dunkin’ Brands’ debt as a result of the deal.

Inspire’s restaurant portfolio already includes major restaurant chains such as Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Jimmy John’s, with over 11,000 locations worldwide.

Dunkin’ Donuts operates over 12,500 coffee and donut outlets worldwide, while Baskin-Robbins runs approximately 8,000 speciality ice cream restaurants. Following the completion of the transaction, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins will be operated as distinct brands within Inspire.

Inspire Brands claims that the addition of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins to its group will create a combined foodservice portfolio which generates $26 billion in systemwide sales; operates over 31,600 restaurants in over 60 countries; and employs approximately 600,000 company and franchise team members and over 3,200+ franchisees.

Paul Brown, co-founder and CEO of Inspire Brands, said: “Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins are category leaders with more than 70 years of rich heritage, and together they are two of the most iconic restaurant brands in the world.

“By joining Inspire, these brands will add complementary guest experiences and occasions to our current portfolio.

Dave Hoffmann, CEO of Dunkin’ Brands, added: “Today’s announcement is a testament to our world-class group of franchisees, licensees, employees, and suppliers who have worked together to transform Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins into modern, relevant brands.

“This team’s grit and determination has enabled us to deliver outsized performance and made our brands among the most elite in the quick-service industry. I am particularly proud of our actions since March of this year. During the global pandemic, we have stood tall. We’ve had each other’s backs and are now stronger than ever.

“We are excited to bring meaningful value to shareholders who have been with us on this journey and believe that Inspire Brands, a preeminent operator of franchised restaurant concepts, will continue to drive growth for our franchisees while remaining true to all that is unique and special about the Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins brands.”