Around the Corner to Around the World
Robert Rosenberg, the former CEO of Dunkin’ Donuts, presents an insider’s view of the company’s journey from a regional family business to a global powerhouse. As the leader of the company for 35 years (1963–1998), Rosenberg transformed the brand into a household name synonymous with coffee and donuts. Under his leadership, Dunkin' Donuts grew from 100 locations in the United States to over 6,500 worldwide. In this memoir and business guide, Rosenberg shares the story of his tenure, including the challenges, missteps, and lessons learned in building a scalable and sustainable business.
This book provides a rare opportunity to learn from the leader of one of the world’s most iconic franchises. It’s not just a narrative of success but an honest recounting of what it takes to build and lead a business over decades, making it highly relevant for founders and entrepreneurs looking for practical wisdom.
Dunkin’ Donuts: From Local to Global
Rosenberg takes readers back to Dunkin’ Donuts’ humble beginnings, founded by his father in 1950 in Quincy, Massachusetts. When Rosenberg took over at the age of 25, the company had already started franchising but was at a crossroads. Through his strategic decisions, he refined the business model to focus on simplicity, consistency, and innovation.
- Franchising Success: Rosenberg explains how Dunkin’ Donuts became a pioneer in franchise management, emphasizing collaboration with franchisees rather than control. This approach became a cornerstone of the company’s success.
- Brand Focus: He describes the deliberate shift toward focusing on coffee as a core offering, which transformed Dunkin’ Donuts into a competitor in the coffee industry while maintaining its stronghold in baked goods.
Leadership Lessons from the Frontlines
The book goes beyond a corporate success story to explore the intricacies of leadership and decision-making. Rosenberg candidly shares mistakes he made, such as ill-fated product launches and misaligned acquisitions, and how he navigated crises.
- Building a Strong Team: He highlights the importance of hiring competent leaders, creating a culture of accountability, and empowering teams to take ownership.
- Resilience and Adaptability: Rosenberg recounts moments of doubt, including economic downturns and competitive pressures, and how adaptability became critical to Dunkin’s growth.
- Core Values and Vision: The author emphasizes the role of staying true to a company’s mission and values while evolving with market demands.
The Evolution of a Global Icon
The book details how Dunkin’ Donuts grew into an internationally recognized brand, with an emphasis on maintaining consistency in quality and customer experience. Rosenberg discusses how the company expanded into new markets while adapting to local tastes and preferences.
Conclusion
Around the Corner to Around the World by Robert Rosenberg is a compelling blend of memoir and business wisdom, offering invaluable insights into leadership, scaling a business, and building an iconic global brand. Rosenberg’s honest reflections and practical lessons make this book a must-read for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone fascinated by the journey of a beloved franchise. If you enjoy this book, consider exploring Grinding It Out by Ray Kroc, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, or Pour Your Heart Into It by Howard Schultz for more inspiring stories from industry giants.