Boardroom Books

4 | Dunkin' Donuts - William Rosenberg's Franchise Empire

Brandon True Episode 4

William Rosenberg was a 8th grade dropout who went on to found the Dunkin' Donuts empire and basically become the Godfather of modern franchising.

He was an insane entrepreneur - excellent at selling to new people, understanding people, and MAKING opportunities happen.

This episode is based on Rosenberg's book "Time to Make the Donuts"


00:00 Introduction to William Rosenberg's Story

00:26 Early Life and Family Background

02:13 First Jobs and Salesmanship

04:26 Career Growth and Ice Cream Business

06:29 Vending Machines and Entrepreneurial Lessons

08:52 World War II and Shipyard Experience

12:40 Launching the Industrial Luncheon Service

14:38 Building a Food Truck Empire

21:08 The Birth of Dunkin Donuts

22:44 Alvin's Impact and the Birth of Open Kettle

24:37 The Success of Open Kettle and the Birth of Dunkin Donuts

26:34 Expansion Challenges and Financing Innovations

31:24 Franchising and Quality Control

33:58 The Rise of Dunkin Donuts and the International Franchise Association

39:55 Going Public and Bill's Legacy