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Graviss Group, the master franchisee of Baskin Robbins in India, is in discussions with Inspire Brands to acquire the franchise rights for Dunkin’ in the country, according to a report by The Economic Times. If the deal goes through, it could mark a fresh chapter for the coffee and doughnut chain, which has struggled to establish itself in the Indian market.
The negotiations come after Jubilant FoodWorks decided to return Dunkin’s franchise rights to Inspire Brands. While ending its long-standing partnership with Jubilant, the global parent reaffirmed its commitment to India and has been looking for a new local partner to drive the brand’s next phase of growth.
According to the report, Graviss plans to revamp Dunkin’s business model if the acquisition is finalised, recognising that the standalone coffee-and-doughnut format has failed to gain significant traction with Indian consumers.
Graviss Group brings considerable experience in food retail. Besides operating Baskin Robbins, it has interests in hospitality, real estate and consumer brands, including InterContinental Marine Drive, Mayfair Banquets and The Brooklyn Creamery. As per Tracxn, Graviss Foods reported revenue of ₹354 crore in FY25.
The company introduced Baskin Robbins to India in 1993 through a joint venture and secured exclusive rights for the SAARC region in 2007. Today, the brand operates more than 800 outlets across 230 cities, supported by nearly 5,000 retail points of sale. It also exports to franchise partners in Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives. This extensive supply chain and operational network could provide a strong foundation for expanding Dunkin’ if the deal is completed.
Jubilant FoodWorks’ 15-year franchise agreement with Dunkin’ will officially end on December 31. Earlier this year, the company informed stock exchanges that exiting the partnership would have no material financial or operational impact on its business.
Dunkin’ ended FY25 with just 27 outlets in India, contributing only 0.61 percent of Jubilant FoodWorks’ total revenue while reporting losses of around ₹19.1 crore.
Launched in India in 2012, Dunkin’ had expanded to more than 70 stores within four years. However, weak consumer acceptance of its standalone coffee-and-doughnut format led to multiple store closures, with several larger outlets later converted into smaller kiosks and takeaway formats. Under a new franchise partner, the brand may now get another opportunity to reposition itself in one of the world’s fastest-growing foodservice markets.
