Dunkin announces return to Canada to take on Tim Hortons

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After almost a decade away, Dunkin’ is coming back to Canada, promising to challenge Tim Hortons’ dominance.

This donut chain used to have many shops throughout Canada, but its last location in Quebec closed in 2018.

This helped Tim Hortons stand out in the donut and coffee market, as they were mainly competing with McDonald’s and smaller coffee shops like Starbucks.

Good news for Canadian donut lovers! Dunkin’ is coming back to Canada, and new locations will be opening much sooner than expected.

Tim Hortons under threat as Dunkin reveals Canadian expansion

According to reports, Canada’s new Dunkin stores will open as early as late 2026 or early 2027.

Dunkin’ is expanding successfully around the world, and we’re thrilled to launch the brand in Canada with a great partner who shares our values,” said Michael Haley, head of International at Inspire Brands.

While it’s unclear exactly where, the company has decided to return to Canada as some Canadians have become less enthusiastic about Tim Hortons.

I’m so excited to start getting my coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts now that they’re in Canada! I love it so much, I feel like I should be promoting them. 👋 So long, Tim Hortons!

— Melissa 🇨🇦 (@MelissaLMRogers) May 12, 2026

Canadians expressed excitement online about the arrival of Dunkin’ Donuts. One X user, MelissaLMRogers, shared her enthusiasm, saying she felt like a brand ambassador and was ready to switch from Tim Hortons. Many others echoed similar sentiments.

Radio personality Greg Brady enthusiastically announced his full support for bringing Dunkin’ Donuts to the country.

I fully support bringing Dunkin’ Donuts to our country and won’t be answering any questions about it right now.

— Greg Brady (@gregbradyx) May 12, 2026

According to the food blog Snackolator, Dunkin’ Donuts plans a major expansion into Canada next year to compete directly with Tim Hortons.

It will be interesting to observe how Dunkin’s expansion into Canada unfolds and how it measures up to its success in the United States, once the first stores open later this year or early next year.

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2026-05-12 18:18