Dunkin’ Donuts coming to Fort Smith (Updated)

Editor’s note: Roby Brock, with our content partner Talk Business, wrote this report. He can be reached at [email protected]

Fort Smith will soon see a Dunkin’ Donuts shop.

Dunkin’ Donuts announced Friday (July 15) it has signed agreements with two franchisees to develop as many as 16 new restaurants throughout Arkansas over the next several years.

Seven units are to be developed in Fort Smith and northwest Arkansas by Littlefield Oil Co. The first restaurant is slated to open in 2012 with the remaining six to open by 2018.

Eric McDuffie and Sam Carter plan to open four restaurants in Hot Springs and Benton over the next several years, according to a Dunkin’ Donuts press release. The first location is scheduled to open in 2012 and the remaining locations are scheduled to open by 2015.

And, a spokesperson for the restaurant chain says that two franchisees will develop 5 Dunkin’ Donut stores in the Little Rock area.

"Little Rock is a priority growth market for Dunkin’ Donuts in 2011, and we’re excited to expand our footprint in Arkansas," said Grant Benson, VP of franchising and market planning for Dunkin’ Brands. "Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day.  We’re confident these franchisees will cultivate lasting customer relationships in the Little Rock and Ft. Smith area and become an integral part of their respective communities."

Little Rock is now sold out for franchise sales, the company says, but opportunities are still available in Jonesboro and northeast Arkansas. The company did not comment on franchise opportunities in other parts of the state.