Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, today announced plans to develop restaurants across Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland.

According to a release today,  Baskin-Robbins is looking to recruit qualified, well-capitalised multi-unit licensee groups with deep retail or foodservice operating experience to develop the brand across Ireland in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Waterford/Wexford and Belfast.

The brand is seeking two franchise groups to develop five locations in The Republic of Ireland and three shops in Northern Ireland over the next several years, or a single group for the entire territory. Ideal licensee candidates will have strong financial backgrounds, knowledge of their local consumers and a proven track record of success in the restaurant industry.

“Ireland represents a tremendous opportunity for Baskin-Robbins as we look to continue growing the brand internationally,” said Jeremy Vitaro, vice president of international development for Dunkin’ Brands. “We feel our value proposition – high-quality ice cream, ice cream cakes and frozen beverages, served in a friendly environment and at a great value – will resonate well with consumers throughout Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland.”  

Baskin-Robbins has a strong presence globally, with more than 7,500 Baskin-Robbins locations in nearly 50 countries worldwide. The brand currently has over 500 restaurants across Europe, including more than 140 Baskin-Robbins locations in the United Kingdom.

Named the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine's 36^thannual Franchise 500^® ranking in 2014, Baskin-Robbins is the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty shops.

The company boasts more than 7,500 retail shops in nearly 50 countries. Baskin-Robbins was founded in 1945 by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,200 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats.