Dunkin' opens first store in Taiwan

Taiwan runs on Dunkin'.

Dunkin' Donuts is opening a store today in Taipei City, its first in Taiwan, and one that will offer sweet potato doughnuts, along with the chain's customary fare, as a way to appeal to local tastes.

"Taiwan represents the first step in Dunkin' Donuts greater China strategy," Anthony Pavese, a Dunkin' Brands Inc. vice president, said in a statement.

Dunkin' Brands of Canton is embarked on major expansion plans for the Dunkin' Donuts chain.

Dunkin' said it granted franchise rights to Mercuries & Associates, one of the country's largest retailers, to develop 100 stores in Taiwan over the next decade.

Aside from its regular menu, the Taiwan store will cater to local tastes with such offerings as sweet potato, green apple, and pineapple doughnuts, Dunkin' said.

(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)