Dunkin’ and its franchisees recognize that what the brand does today will matter tomorrow. As a 100% franchise system, Dunkin’ is committed to providing franchisees with the resources they need for environmental stewardship. That is why Dunkin’ created the End of Day Donation and composting programs to support positive environmental change.
The End of Day Donation Program
End of Day Donation is an optional program for franchisees that helps serve local non-profit community service and hunger relief organizations by donating surplus food from their restaurants. Donatable items include bakery items and other shelf-stable food, and unclaimed catering orders.
With the exception of locations where food donation regulations exist, it is left to the discretion of the individual owner of each restaurant whether or not food is donated at the end of the day. Dunkin’ encourages its franchisees to become involved with their local communities.
Composting Program
In addition to Dunkin’s End of Day Donation program, Dunkin’ has also developed a composting program as an option for franchisees who wish to compost coffee grounds and other organic waste. More than 80% of the brand’s guests consume their Dunkin’ orders outside of the restaurants. However, Dunkin’ is committed to providing its franchisees with the resources they need for environmental care.
Dunkin’ Franchisee, Kim Wolak, of Portland, Maine, currently has 10 locations in the area and has been composting for more than eight years. Her team’s composting efforts have diverted nearly 1,879 tons from landfills, amounting to approximately 3.7 million pounds.
Kim works with We Compost It!, a local company founded in 2009, to compost leftover food scraps. After completing the composting process at the We Compost It! plant in Auburn, Maine, the compost is then donated to local schools each spring for their school gardens. The compost is also shared as part of a give-back program with We Compost It! residential partners. The rest is sold via large shipments to garden centers and landscapers in and around Southern Maine.
Commitment to Hunger in the United States
In 2020, Dunkin’ and National DCP (NDCP), the supply chain management company serving Dunkin’ restaurants, made numerous product donations during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. These donations to partner organizations, including Feeding America, amounted to more than 205,000 pounds of food and over 4,360 gallons of dairy.
Dunkin’ is committed to continuing to drive positive change for its customers, communities and our environment, and the brand looks forward to sharing further updates on its efforts throughout the year.
