The speculation originated in late 2017 when reports suggested , the parent company and owner of Krispy Kreme , was interested in acquiring Dunkin' Brands Group Inc. .
: The move was viewed as a way for JAB to create a "coffee and treat" powerhouse to compete more effectively against Starbucks Corp. .
The report that Krispy Kreme is buying Dunkin' (formerly Dunkin' Donuts) is based on unconfirmed rumors from . In reality, Dunkin' was acquired by Inspire Brands in December 2020 for $11.3 billion . Clarification of the Rumor
: Neither company officially confirmed the talks, and no merger between the two occurred. Actual 2020 Acquisition by Inspire Brands Could Dunkin' Donuts Be Bought by Krispy Kreme? - Thrillist
: At the time, analysts estimated a deal could be worth approximately $8.2 billion .
