A Conversation with Dunkin’ Executive Chairman Nigel Travis: Part 1

Nigel Travis is no stranger to the franchising industry. Having served as an executive for major companies including Dunkin’, Papa John’s and Blockbuster, he’s been witness to numerous industry changes that have shaped the franchising landscape that we now know today. One of those major changes is currently happening at Dunkin’, which recently dropped the Donuts from his name.

In an interview with 1851 Franchise, Travis dives into his experience with the leading brand. After serving as CEO of Dunkin’ from 2009 to July of 2018 — and now in his role as the brand’s Executive Chairman — Travis explains that the public transition unfolding now is one that’s been in the works behind the scenes for years.

“I think it’s been a natural progression. My predecessor did a lot of great work on beverages. I think we very quickly — and the unit economics worked that I told you about as I was coming in during the recession — realized, we’re on to something with beverages. The beverage margin was clearly a lot higher than some of our food products. I think we also recognized very clearly that donuts still had a role,” said Travis.

He continued, adding, “We also recognized that the other group of products that still was relatively embryonic when I came in and has grown steadily through the time, which is our sandwich line, was an important link because people in the morning wanted a good, affordable breakfast sandwich along with a drink.”