Global ice-cream giant Baskin-Robbins has announced its plans to return to the Irish market with the opening of a number of new restaurants in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
The move is part of parent company Dunkin’ Brands’ ongoing strategy to increase its presence across Europe, which it sees as a key region for the Baskin-Robbins brand, as it continues to grow globally.
Dublin, Cork, Galway, Waterford/Wexford and Belfast have been touted as likely locations for the new restaurants, with Baskin-Robbins currently in the market to recruit what it calls, "qualified, well-capitalised multi-unit licensee groups with deep retail or foodservice operating experience to develop the brand across Ireland".
The brand is seeking two franchise groups to develop five locations in the Republic of Ireland and three shops in Northern Ireland over the next several years, or a single group for the entire territory.
It says that the ideal licensee candidates will have "strong financial backgrounds, knowledge of their local consumers and a proven track record of success in the restaurant industry".
"Ireland represents a tremendous opportunity for Baskin-Robbins as we look to continue growing the brand internationally,” said Jeremy Vitaro, vice president of international development for Dunkin’ Brands. “We feel our value proposition – high-quality ice cream, ice cream cakes and frozen beverages, served in a friendly environment and at a great value – will resonate well with consumers throughout Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland.”
Baskin-Robbins has a strong presence globally, with more than 7,500 Baskin-Robbins locations in nearly 50 countries worldwide. The brand currently has over 500 restaurants across Europe, including more than 140 Baskin-Robbins locations in the United Kingdom.
