Changes brewing at Dunkin' Donuts

The Globe (and BBC and Advertising Age, and many more) report the resignation (news release here) of Dunkin's president and chief brand officer, William Kussell. The Globe's short article isn't enough to tell the hole story, but it sounds as if CEO Nigel Travis, who was brought in about a year ago, decided there were several grounds for Kussell's departure:

Travis said he wants Dunkin' Donuts to be more responsive to changing consumer trends and increased competition.

"You can expect to see us sharpen our stores and be more competitive in terms of price, product, and advertising," Travis said. "We need to be very fast on our feet and use every weapon that we can."

Travis said he is also looking to gain a better understanding of what franchisees need in the field to compete better and improve service to customers.

Franchise relations appear to be a top issue for the company, as the Globe notes recent complaints that Dunks tries to force stores to close. Travis highlighted the issue earlier, in a June Q&A with Nation's Restaurant News.