Dunkin Donuts Marketing Mix and 7Ps (Updated 2024)

The Marketing mix of Dunkin Donuts analyses the 7Ps of Dunkin Donuts, which includes the Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Physical Evidence, and Process of Dunkin Donuts. The Dunkin Donuts marketing mix is the framework via which the company decided and implemented its marketing strategies for a strong presence in old and new markets.

The marketing strategy of Dunkin Donuts analyses the brand and target customers through the marketing mix elements like product line, food items, hot drinks, cold beverages, distribution, improved customer service strategy, global pricing policy, sensory marketing, and promotional strategy to gain a competitive advantage in different countries across the world.

The Dunkin Donuts strategy has been incorporated into the business so that the company can continue with its global expansion policy in new markets, attract customers, and become the largest coffee chain in the world.

Introduction of Dunkin Donuts

# Dunkin Donuts

• Origin Country: United States of America
• Founder: William Rosenberg
• Founded: 1950
• Headquarters: Canton, Massachusetts, U.S.
• Parent Company: Inspire Brands
• Annual Revenue in 2023: 1.32 billion USD
• Net Income in 2023: 242.02 million USD
• Market Cap in 2023: 8.78 billion USD

Dunkin Donuts is an American multinational company associated with the food and beverage industry. It is the largest coffee and doughnut company and a quick-service restaurant. William Rosenberg opened it, and it was later acquired by Baskin-Robins’ holding company in 1990. Later, both Baskin Robins and products Dunkin Donuts name started operating as subsidiaries of Dunkin’ Brands.

Dunkin Donuts rebranded as a “beverage-led company” and was renamed Dunkin’. The Dunkin Donuts rebranding process started in the United States and, over time, rolled out for other international stores. The Dunkin Donuts product line includes baked goods like hash browns and cold, frozen, and hot beverages like bagels, doughnuts, hot chocolate, and coffee.

Dunkin Donuts Product Strategy

Dunkin Donuts’ marketing strategy has helped the company become one of the most popular coffee brands in the world. Delivery companies serve coffee lovers 2 billion coffee cups annually, or 60 coffee cups every second, and 2.9 billion doughnuts annually.

2.000 coffee beans on the go are used to make 1 pound of Dunkin Donuts coffee. The company is very particular about the quality of Dunkin Donuts products and has experts who taste nearly 200 cups of coffee daily.

The new Product Mix of Dunkin Donuts in 2024 is as follows (Source).

1. Donuts: A variety of flavors and styles, maintaining their traditional focus.
2. Beverages: A large selection of coffee and other drinks is now a significant part of their sales.
3. Baked Goods: Besides donuts, they offer a variety of baked items.
4. Breakfast Foods: An assortment of breakfast sandwiches and other options.
5. Localized Offerings: Unique menu items tailored to different global locations.

Dunkin Donuts Pricing Strategy

Dunkin Donuts is customers’ favorite brand all over the world. It is most popular in the United States, among the brand’s highest-earning countries.

Even though Donuts is the company’s main product, it accounts for only 8% of small businesses’ total sales. The beverage section is the highest earner at 65% of the total sales, and other food items are at 27%.

Dunkin’ Donuts’ pricing strategy is characterized by:

1. Affordable Pricing: Dunkin’ positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to competitors like Starbucks.
2. Franchise Model: Their franchise-led business model allows for strategic pricing flexibility.
3. Value for Money: Focused on providing quality products at reasonable prices.
4. Adapting to Market Changes: Prices are adjusted in response to market conditions and cost shifts.
5. Loyalty Program Adjustments: Dunkin’ periodically revises its loyalty programs to balance customer value with business needs.

Dunkin Donuts Place Strategy

The local marketplace and distribution strategy in Dunkin’s marketing mix is obvious. As the company is one of the significant fast-food joints, the focus is on the distribution system in different countries.

Dunkin’ Donuts’ place strategy includes:

1. Global Store Network: Dunkin’ operates thousands of stores in over 40 countries.
2. First Overseas Location in Japan: Expanded internationally with its first restaurant in Japan in 1970.
3. Concentration in the USA: Many stores are in the U.S., particularly New York.
4. Digital and Physical Presence: Embraces traditional store formats and a growing digital presence.
5. Local Customization: Stores are run by local franchise owners, allowing menu adaptation to local tastes.

Dunkin Donuts Promotion Strategy

The marketing strategy of Dunkin Donuts is considered unique and apt in-store kiosks as it easily aligns the marketing mix elements with promotional tools like sensory marketing, event marketing, and social media marketing to attract customers, generate a strong presence in the target market and create a loyal customer base.

The promotion strategy in the Dunkin Donuts marketing strategy and marketing mix includes the following:

Traditional Media

The Dunkin Donuts marketing strategy uses traditional media like electronic and print media to its advantage. Ad campaigns are shown on prime television channels for maximum brand visibility. The ads are also displayed via the print media in newspapers, magazines, hoardings, and billboards.

Marketing Campaigns

The brand has launched several marketing campaigns to convert the potential and maintain the existing customers. It celebrates National Donut Day with several products online and incentives. In recent times, Dunkin Donuts has projected itself as one of the best coffee brands, and it celebrates this achievement by offering free coffee to customers on special occasions.

Social Media Marketing

The brand understands that being active on social media platforms via social media marketing is the need of the hour. It maintains direct contact with the customers by being active on social media pages through different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. The Instagram social media pages are a visual treat as they display recipes alongside appealing videos and graphics to maintain consumer interest.

Event Marketing and Sponsorships

The Dunkin Donuts marketing strategy ensures that its event marketing and influencer promotion are at their best. The brand sponsors the National Women’s Hockey League, NBA Basketball Team, Dallas Cowboys, New York Mets, and Tampa Bay Rays.

Dunkin Donuts had a sponsorship deal with Madison Square Garden Company. After signing a multi-year sponsorship deal with the National Women’s Hockey League, the brand is the official iced tea, hot and frozen coffee of the NWHL.

DD Perks Rewards

As part of the Dunkin Donuts marketing strategy, the brand has launched the DD Perks Rewards, where members get 5 points for every dollar spent. When customers have gathered 200 points, they can use the reward coupon for a complimentary beverage. Members are also eligible for a free coffee or any other drink when they enroll in the program and on birthdays.

Partnerships

In 2019, Dunkin Donuts partnered with Grubhub for the new Dunkin’ Delivers Service and Beyond Meat for a meatless breakfast sandwich. It became the first restaurant coffee brand to serve coffee lovers Beyond Sausage.

Sustainable Efforts

Since April 2020, the company has decided to phase out foam cups made from polystyrene for environmental safety.

CSR Activities

Dunkin Donuts contributes through “The Joy in Childhood Foundation” and has donated nearly 16+ million to local and national charities for children battling illness or hunger.

Some Recent Video ads and Print ads for Dunkin Donuts are:

Dunkin Donuts People Strategy

The “People” element of the service marketing mix for Dunkin’ Donuts can be considered through various lenses, such as employee training, customer service, company culture, and the overall customer experience. Here are some points that could be included in your article:

1. Employee Training and Development: Dunkin’ Donuts invests in comprehensive employee training programs to ensure high-quality service. This includes product knowledge, customer service skills, and operational efficiency. The training helps employees to understand the brand values and deliver consistent service across all outlets.
2. Customer Service Philosophy: The brand emphasizes friendly, quick, and efficient customer service. Dunkin’ Donuts aims to create a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel valued. The staff is trained to handle orders promptly while maintaining a positive attitude, which is central to the customer experience.
3. Teamwork and Collaboration: Dunkin’ Donuts promotes a culture of teamwork among its employees. Staff members are encouraged to work collaboratively to maintain store cleanliness, ensure product quality, and provide excellent service. This team-oriented approach contributes to operational efficiency and a positive work environment.
4. Employee Satisfaction and Retention Strategies: Recognizing that satisfied employees are more likely to provide better service, Dunkin’ Donuts implements strategies for employee retention. This includes offering competitive wages, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within the company.
5. Customer Feedback and Engagement: Dunkin’ Donuts values customer feedback and engages with customers through various channels, including social media, surveys, and in-store feedback mechanisms. This direct input from customers helps the company improve its service and address any issues promptly.
6. Diversity and Inclusion: Dunkin’ Donuts strives for diversity and inclusion within its workforce. The company believes that a diverse team can better serve the diverse needs of its customer base, fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.
7. Community Involvement: Employees and franchises are often encouraged to participate in local community events and initiatives. This helps build a positive brand image and strengthens the bond between Dunkin’ Donuts and the communities it serves.
8. Adaptability to Customer Needs: Dunkin’ Donuts trains its employees to be adaptable to the varying needs of customers, including accommodating special orders and understanding dietary restrictions. This flexibility enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Dunkin Donuts Process Strategy

The “Process” element of the service marketing mix for Dunkin’ Donuts encompasses the operational and service delivery methods that impact the customer experience. Here are several points that could be highlighted in your article about Dunkin’ Donuts’ process:

1. Streamlined Order and Delivery System: Dunkin’ Donuts has developed an efficient in-store and online order-taking and delivery system. This includes quick-service counters, drive-thrus, and mobile app ordering, ensuring customers receive their orders promptly and accurately.
2. Mobile Ordering and Payment: The Dunkin’ mobile app allows customers to place orders in advance, pay online, and earn rewards. This process enhances convenience, reduces wait times, and improves customer experience.
3. Quality Control Procedures: Dunkin’ Donuts maintains strict quality control procedures to ensure all products meet company standards. This includes sourcing ingredients, preparation methods, and final product presentation. Regular audits and checks are part of their process to maintain consistency and quality across all outlets.
4. Training and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Dunkin’ Donuts has comprehensive training programs and SOPs for its employees to ensure consistency in service delivery. These procedures cover everything from customer interaction to food preparation and hygiene standards.
5. Feedback and Continuous Improvement: The company has a process for collecting and analyzing customer feedback through various channels, including surveys and social media. This feedback is used to improve service processes and address any areas of concern continually.
6. Supply Chain Management: Dunkin’ Donuts has an efficient supply chain management process to ensure the timely delivery of fresh ingredients to all its outlets. This includes a network of suppliers, distribution centers, and logistics providers.
7. Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives: Dunkin’ Donuts incorporates processes that reduce its environmental impact, such as implementing more sustainable packaging solutions and waste management practices. These efforts are part of its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
8. Franchisee Support and Management: For its franchised outlets, Dunkin’ Donuts provides extensive support and management guidelines to ensure that franchisees adhere to the brand’s standards for quality and service. This includes operational support, marketing, and ongoing training.
9. Health and Safety Protocols: Dunkin’ Donuts has established health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of both customers and employees. This includes regular cleaning and sanitization of outlets, adherence to food safety standards, and compliance with local health regulations.
10. Innovation in Service Delivery: Dunkin’ Donuts continuously explores new technologies and service methods to enhance customer experience. This includes testing new store formats, introducing new product lines, and leveraging technology to streamline operations.

Dunkin Donuts Physical Evidence Strategy

The “Physical Evidence” component of the service marketing mix for Dunkin’ Donuts refers to the tangible elements that customers interact with, which help shape their perceptions of the brand. This encompasses the physical environment of their outlets, branding elements, and other physical touchpoints that contribute to the customer experience. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Store Design and Layout: Dunkin’ Donuts stores feature a distinctive design and layout that is welcoming and efficient for quick service. The design includes the brand’s signature orange and pink colors, comfortable seating areas, and clear signage to guide customers through ordering.
2. Branding and Visual Identity: The recognizable logo, color scheme, and branding elements of Dunkin’ Donuts are consistently applied across all marketing materials, packaging, and store designs. This strong visual identity helps reinforce brand recognition and loyalty.
3. Cleanliness and Maintenance: The cleanliness and maintenance of Dunkin’ Donuts outlets are crucial for creating a positive customer impression. Regular cleaning, upkeep of facilities, and prompt attention to maintenance issues ensure a pleasant environment for customers.
4. Product Presentation: The way Dunkin’ Donuts presents its food and beverages is part of its physical evidence. This includes the appearance of the products, packaging, and the presentation of items within the store, such as the display of donuts and baked goods.
5. Service Ware and Packaging: The use of branded service ware, such as cups, napkins, and packaging, not only serves a practical purpose but also acts as a marketing tool. Sustainable packaging options reflect the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
6. Digital Touchpoints: Physical evidence also extends to digital platforms like the Dunkin’ Donuts website and mobile app. These platforms’ design, usability, and functionality contribute to the overall brand experience.
7. Signage and Wayfinding: Inside and outside signage, including menu boards and promotional displays, are designed for clarity and brand consistency. Effective wayfinding helps customers navigate the space quickly and enhances the service experience.
8. Ambiance and Atmosphere: The atmosphere within Dunkin’ Donuts stores, created through lighting, music, and interior design choices, contributes to a welcoming and comfortable environment for customers to enjoy their purchases.
9. Employee Uniforms: The uniforms worn by Dunkin’ Donuts staff are part of the brand’s physical evidence. Uniforms help identify staff members quickly and contribute to the brand’s professional image.
10. Customer Feedback Mechanisms: Physical evidence includes mechanisms for customers to provide feedback on their experience, such as store comment cards or digital feedback terminals. This shows the brand’s openness to customer input and dedication to improvement.

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