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Dunkin’ is officially expanding its reach beyond the morning coffee daypart with the nationwide launch of Dunkin’ Zero. This new line of zero-sugar energy drinks is designed to capture the "in-between" moments of the day, targeting consumers who require functional energy after the traditional morning rush. The move signals a strategic effort by the brand to compete more directly in the rapidly growing functional beverage and energy drink categories.

Market Entry With Dunkin' Zero

The new Dunkin’ Zero line consists of six fruit-forward varieties, each containing 20 calories per medium serving and zero grams of sugar. The lightly carbonated beverage is positioned as a "reset" tool for professionals and parents moving between daily commitments.

The initial flavour lineup includes:

🫐🍊 Blackberry Tangerine

🥭 Tropical Mango

🍑 Juicy Peach

✨ Glamberry (Blackberry Tangerine and Juicy Peach blend)

☀️ Sunzest (Tropical Mango and Juicy Peach blend)

🥤 Blushpop (Blackberry Tangerine and Tropical Mango blend)

Jill Nelson, Chief Marketing Officer at Dunkin’, noted that the expansion is intended to fuel the rhythm of everyday life for guests who are already integrated into the Dunkin’ ecosystem but seek sugar-free energy alternatives. To drive initial trial and digital engagement, Dunkin’ Rewards members can access a $3 medium drink promotion during afternoon hours through mid-March.

Seasonal Menu Innovation Features Banana Profiles

In addition to the energy category entry, Dunkin’ has introduced an extensive spring menu centred on banana flavour profiles. The brand is utilising two new components—Banana Syrup and Banana Cold Foam—to integrate the flavour across several beverage platforms, including espresso, matcha, and its Refreshers line.

Key additions to the spring lineup include:

• Banana Puddin’ Cloud Latte: An espresso and whole milk beverage topped with Banana Cold Foam.

• Banana Daydream Refresher: A combination of existing Refresher bases (Strawberry Dragonfruit, Mango Pineapple, or Berry Acai) with oatmilk and Banana Cold Foam.

• Bananarama Matcha: A matcha latte incorporating the new banana flavour.

Anthony Epter, Vice President of Menu Innovation at Dunkin’, cited the versatility and nostalgic appeal of banana as the primary reason for the seasonal focus. The launch is also supported by a limited-edition merchandise drop, a tactic the brand frequently employs to boost social media visibility and brand loyalty.

Portfolio Growth in Refreshers and Bakery

The Dunkin’ Refreshers line has also seen a permanent expansion with the addition of Berry Acai. This new flavour profile is designed to mimic the notes of an acai smoothie bowl and is being featured in specific builds such as the Bananaberry Protein Daydream Refresher.

In the bakery segment, the brand is targeting the upcoming spring wedding season. Coinciding with National Proposal Day on March 20, Dunkin’ has introduced Wedding Cake MUNCHKINS. These blueberry-flavoured doughnut holes are coated in wedding cake-themed sprinkles. This limited-time offering precedes a larger planned partnership and campaign focusing on "brides who run on Dunkin’," which the company expects to detail later this month.